Thailand Enforces Martial Law in Border Districts After Deadly Clashes with Cambodia

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

BANGKOK — Thailand has imposed martial law across eight border districts following a sharp escalation in violent clashes with Cambodia over disputed territory surrounding historic Khmer-era Hindu temples.

According to the Royal Thai Army, martial law has been enacted in seven districts of Chanthaburi province and one district of Trat province. The measure comes after artillery fire, air strikes, and ground troop mobilizations erupted near the Emerald Triangle, a volatile border zone shared by Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

“Martial law is now in effect to ensure public safety and national security,” said Lt. Gen. Apichart Sapprasert, commander of Thailand’s Border Defense Command.

Martial law has been declared in:

• Chanthaburi Province: Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Makham, Laem Sing, Kaeng Hang Maew, Na Yai Am, Khao Khitchakut
• Trat Province: Khao Saming

Authorities have closed several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in conflict zones:

• Phu Chong–Na Yoi National Park
• Khao Phra Wihan National Park
• Yod Dom Wildlife Sanctuary
• Phanom Dong Rak Wildlife Sanctuary
• Huai Sala and Huai Thap Than–Huai Samran Sanctuaries

These areas are near Sisaket and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, where shelling and troop deployments have intensified.

At the heart of the crisis lies the territorial dispute over ancient temple sites, particularly Prasat Ta Muen Thom (on the Thai side) and Prasat Preah Vihear (within Cambodian borders).

Although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) granted ownership of Preah Vihear to Cambodia in a 2013 ruling, both countries continue to contest surrounding areas.

Tensions escalated Thursday as jets, tanks, and heavy artillery were deployed. A convenience store in Thailand’s Sisaket province was struck by Cambodian artillery, according to local reports.

Thailand’s Health Ministry confirmed 15 deaths — 14 civilians and one soldier — with 46 injured, including 15 military personnel.

In Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province, one civilian was killed and five others were injured, reports said.

More than 138,000 people have fled their homes across Thailand’s eastern provinces as fears of a broader conflict grow.

With the crisis deepening, the United Nations Security Council is expected to meet urgently to de-escalate tensions and prevent a full-blown military conflict in Southeast Asia.