A Cambodian military convoy drives towards the border city of Samrong in Oddar Meanchey Province, Cambodia. (AP Photo)As fighting along the Thailand-Cambodia border stretched into a third day, US President Donald Trump said he had spoken with Cambodian leaders and was preparing to call Thailand to push for an immediate ceasefire. “The call with Cambodia has ended, but expect to call back regarding war stoppage and ceasefire based on what Thailand has to say. I am trying to simplify a complex situation!” Trump wrote on his social media platform. Meanwhile, India expressed concern over the escalating hostilities, with MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal saying, “We are closely monitoring the situation along the border between Cambodia and Thailand.” He added that Indian travellers in the region should reach out to local embassies for assistance.
Cambodia asks for ceasefire: Cambodia has asked for an “immediate ceasefire” with Thailand, the country’s envoy to the United Nations said. Bangkok has also signalled an openness to talks after two days of deadly clashes that have left 32 dead and thousands displaced. At least 13 Cambodians have been killed, while at least six soldiers and 13 civilians, including children, have died in Thailand. As the conflict entered its third day, the border fighting between the two nations has forced tens of thousands to seek refuge, raising fears of a prolonged conflict.
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UNSC meeting: The UN Security Council held an emergency closed-door meeting Friday in New York. Malaysia, which chairs the 10-nation regional bloc that includes both countries, called for an end to the hostilities and offered to mediate. While the council did not issue a formal statement, a diplomat said all 15 members urged both sides to deescalate, exercise restraint and resolve the dispute peacefully.
