Vietnam has expressed deep concern over the growing tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border, calling on both nations to exercise maximum restraint and avoid the use of force.
“Vietnam is concerned about the escalating situation between Thailand and Cambodia, two neighboring countries and fellow ASEAN members,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said in a statement on Friday. “It is crucial that both sides refrain from violence, de-escalate tensions, and resolve disputes peacefully based on the fundamental principles of international law, the UN Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.”
The call comes after a dramatic deterioration in Thai-Cambodian relations. On July 23, Thailand downgraded diplomatic ties with Cambodia, accusing Phnom Penh of laying landmines in a disputed border area that injured a Thai soldier. Cambodia retaliated by recalling its entire diplomatic staff from Bangkok and reducing ties to the lowest level.
Armed clashes erupted at dawn today, with both sides exchanging gunfire and accusing each other of provocation. The situation worsened as heavy weapons were deployed. Thailand reported 12 civilian deaths from Cambodian shelling and launched retaliatory airstrikes using F-16 fighter jets.
Cambodia has not yet disclosed casualties on its side.
China and Malaysia have also voiced concern, urging both nations to de-escalate and seek a diplomatic resolution to avoid further regional instability.