University shelter houses 3,000 Thai evacuees amid escalating Cambodia dispute: Video
Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, and over 32 individuals have died in the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which began on Thursday, July 24.
The clashes, involving small arms fire, artillery exchanges, and reported Thai airstrikes, erupted near the disputed Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple along the border.
By Saturday, July 26, around 3,000 Thai evacuees had sought refuge at Surindra Rajabhat University in Surin. Evacuees were seen resting on the floors of the university hall as volunteers and uniformed officers distributed food and provided support.
"We had to evacuate our people for their safety. This formula is the only centre that welcomes people in Phanom Drak District. All assistance is going well. Just now I was satisfied with the help. As for the shortages, we will follow up later," Samat, a volunteer from the evacuation team, said.
"My house is located on the border. Between the border and my house, the distance is only 3 kilometres, so I had to come here. I feel homesick, and I am worried about my family because my father is still at home," Ratana, a resident, shared concerns.
The conflict stems from a territorial dispute dating back to the 1900s. In response to the latest escalation, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), proposed a ceasefire on Friday, July 25. On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the leaders of both countries had agreed to work toward a ceasefire.
Malaysia’s foreign minister confirmed on Sunday that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed for Malaysia to serve as a mediator in the dispute.
Earlier in July, Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra following allegations of ethical violations. A leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, in which she reportedly discussed the border conflict and expressed personal support, raised questions regarding propriety and national interest.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
