Thailand-Cambodia Clashes: 15 Dead, UN Council to Meet

Troops from Thailand and Cambodia continue to exchange fire on July 25. According to Thai officials, clashes have occurred in 12 locations along the disputed border. The death toll in Thailand has risen sharply, reaching 15 on the morning of July 24. 14 of them are civilians, reports the Thai Ministry of Health.

In Cambodia, at least one person has reportedly been killed. The number is likely higher, but for now, official sources are silent on casualties.

Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has stated that the conflict could "escalate into a war."

Cambodian officials have accused Thai armed forces of using cluster bombs in at least two locations.

Both sides have carried out evacuations, moving residents from areas considered dangerous. In Cambodia, more than 4,000 people have been displaced from their homes near the border. According to Thailand's Ministry of Interior, more than 100,000 Thai residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters. Other sources put this number at 150,000.

Thai authorities have denied Cambodia's accusations that the Thai army bombed the Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Thai armed forces have condemned Cambodia's use of long-range weapons to "target civilian areas," calling the action "barbaric."

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stated that he has held talks with the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia and has called for a ceasefire and the start of dialogue.

The UN Security Council plans to hold an emergency meeting at the UN headquarters in New York to discuss the Thailand-Cambodia conflict.