Thai-Cambodia War Sees Attacks on Buddhist Temples. Heritage is being destroyed, citizens are fleeing. The international community has appealed for a ceasefire.
Thailand Cambodia Clash: The ongoing military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has now taken a serious turn. The armies of both countries are attacking each other with heavy weapons. In this conflict, not only are ordinary people losing their lives, but centuries-old cultural and religious heritages are also being turned into rubble. UNESCO heritage sites such as the Ta Moan Sanche Pagoda and Preah Vihear have also been hit by bombings. The international community has demanded an immediate ceasefire.
Day Two of Conflict: Bombing of Temples
The second day of fighting on the Thailand-Cambodia border proved even more devastating. On the morning of July 24, Thai Air Force F-16 fighter jets dropped three bombs on the Prasat Ta Moan Sanche Pagoda in Cambodia's Siem Reap province. This sacred site was completely destroyed.
After the attack, Buddhist monks had to flee to save their lives. Monks and local villagers left with only essential items in search of shelter. Many people were seen arriving in Siem Reap city after walking all night. They were terrified and extremely tired.
Many Lives Lost on the First Day, Mass Exodus
According to a report by the Thai government, 14 Thai citizens died on the first day of the conflict, while the total number of deaths was reported to be 46. Approximately 125,000 people have been evacuated from the conflict-affected areas.
According to government figures, there has been heavy destruction in the border areas, and the exodus of people continues unabated. Thailand reported that the Ministry of Education has closed schools in these areas and district hospitals are being converted into field hospitals.
Use of Heavy Weapons, Retaliatory Attacks from Both Sides
On July 25, clashes broke out again between the armies of the two countries. The Thai army reported that the Cambodian army used heavy weapons, field artillery, and BM-21 rocket systems. In response, the Thai army also fired back from strategic locations.
Cambodia claims that the Thai army dropped two bombs near the Preah Vihear Temple. This temple is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, and its structure has been severely damaged.
Crisis on Cultural Heritage, Temples Turned to Rubble
The biggest loss in this conflict is being suffered by the historical sites that are the cultural and religious identity of both countries. Historical structures are in danger due to firing and bombing around the Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear temples.
The bombing of Khmer-era temples has caused serious damage to their original structure. In many places, the roofs of the temples have collapsed, and the remains of statues are scattered. International organizations have demanded that an immediate ceasefire be implemented to protect these historical heritages.
Thailand's Warning: No Compromise on Sovereignty
Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has made it clear that there will be no compromise with the country's sovereignty. He said that Thailand wants to resolve the issue peacefully through dialogue, but will defend itself if necessary. After the National Security Council meeting, he informed that the army has been deployed in the border areas and the safety of citizens is being given priority.
Cambodia's Response: Action Taken in Self-Defense
The Cambodian army held a press conference and stated that the Thai army has attacked eight locations in Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces. These include areas such as Ta Muen Thom, Ta Krabey, and Mom Bei. Army spokesperson Lieutenant General So Cheata said that the Cambodian army has retaliated in self-defense. She also said that Cambodia has regained control of the Ta Krabey temple and Mom Bei area.
Growing Humanitarian Tragedy
The common people are paying the biggest price for this fight. Thousands of families in border villages have had to leave their homes. Many villagers are fleeing to safer places in their traditional attire with only a bag. Humanitarian organizations have warned that if a ceasefire is not reached soon, this conflict could turn into a major humanitarian tragedy.
