Thailand, Cambodia Begin Peace Talks Today in Malaysia
Thai acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian PM Hun Manet will attend, as tensions rise over contested territory that has seen more than 30 deaths in recent days.
Artillery Fire Continues
Despite agreeing to meet, both countries continued to exchange fire just hours after confirming the talks. Each side blames the other for the renewed attacks— Cambodia says Thai forces shelled historic temple sites, while Thailand claims Cambodian rockets hit civilian homes.
More than 200,000 people have already been evacuated from the border region, and reports from the ground say artillery fire hasn't stopped.
U.S. and U.N. Push for Peace
U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with both leaders on Saturday, urging them to agree to an immediate ceasefire. He warned that trade deals with Washington would be frozen if violence continues. Meanwhile, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres echoed the call for restraint and resolution.
Trump said the phone calls 'got them to the table' and called the Malaysia talks a step in the right direction.
What's the Dispute About?
The two Southeast Asian nations have clashed for years over disputed sections of their 817km border, especially areas around ancient Hindu temples like Ta Moan Thom and Preah Vihear. Though the International Court of Justice awarded Preah Vihear to Cambodia in 1962, tensions reignited in 2008 when Cambodia pushed to list it as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Civilians Caught in the Middle
Thousands of evacuees are now staying in temporary shelters on both sides of the border. Conditions are basic— just enough food, water, and bedding —but uncertainty looms.
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