Thailand–Cambodia Clash: Everything you need to know about the dispute

DH Web Desk

Deadly clashes erupted Thursday morning between Thai and Cambodian troops along a disputed border, killing at least 16 people, mostly Thai civilians.

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Credit: Reuters

Thailand accused Cambodia of killing Thai civilians, while Cambodia claimed Thai fighter jets bombed its territory.

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Credit: Reuters

Videos show explosions and gunfire in the disputed border area, prompting many residents to seek shelter.

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Credit: Reuters

Hundreds have taken refuge in a shelter after clashes along the disputed border in Buriram province, Thailand.

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Credit: Reuters

While the exact cause of the recent violence is unknown, relations between Thailand and Cambodia have grown increasingly strained.

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Credit: Reuters

In late May, a Cambodian soldier was killed by Thai forces during a trench-digging clash. Both sides have since reinforced their border positions.

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Credit: Reuters

This followed reports of land mines injuring several Thai soldiers along the disputed border. Thai officials allege the explosives were newly planted on paths previously deemed safe.

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Credit: Reuters

Thailand and Cambodia have disputed their border for decades. The 800-kilometer (500-mile) stretch passes through remote, lightly populated regions that are difficult to access and were historically under-mapped.

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Credit: Reuters

Several temples near the Thai-Cambodian border are claimed by both nations, including the 1,000-year-old Preah Vihear temple, a Hindu site built by the Khmer Empire and located in the Emerald Triangle.

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Credit: Special Arrangement

Both Thailand and Cambodia claimed the Preah Vihear temple, leading to a 1962 ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in favor of Cambodia. Tensions flared again in 2008 during its UNESCO World Heritage nomination, resulting in deadly border clashes.

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Credit: Reuters