Thailand and Cambodia Teeter on the Brink of War as Deadly Border Clashes Escalate

A long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has erupted into the deadliest fighting in over a decade, with both sides exchanging heavy artillery, airstrikes, and accusations of aggression. The conflict, centered around disputed territory and ancient temples, has killed at least 32 people and displaced over 170,000 civilians from both countries. Cambodia has called for an immediate ceasefire, but Thailand has rejected international mediation and declared martial law in several border districts. The violence is fueled by deep-rooted historical grievances, nationalist sentiment, and a personal feud between political leaders, while the crisis also tests US and Chinese influence in the region. With no sign of de-escalation, the United Nations has urged restraint as fears mount that the conflict could spiral into a full-scale war.