More than half a million people in Cambodia have been forced to flee their homes due to ongoing border clashes with Thailand, Cambodian authorities said on Sunday, as regional talks are set to begin in an effort to contain the escalating violence.
According to a statement from Cambodia’s Interior Ministry, at least 518,611 people have been displaced over the past two weeks, including large numbers of women and children.
The ministry said those affected are facing severe hardship after being driven from their homes and schools by artillery shelling, missile fire and air strikes, including attacks carried out by Thai F-16 fighter jets.
The announcement came a day before planned regional discussions aimed at de-escalating the conflict along the disputed border. Thailand has also reported significant displacement on its side, saying nearly 400,000 people have been forced to evacuate due to renewed fighting.
Speaking to local media on Sunday, Thai Defense Ministry spokesperson Surasant Kongseri said the number of evacuees sheltering in temporary centers had fallen, but more than 200,000 people remain in evacuation shelters.
He urged those wishing to return home to strictly follow official guidance, warning of the continued danger posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance left behind in conflict zones.
The growing humanitarian crisis has raised concerns among regional and international observers, as sustained clashes continue to uproot civilian populations and strain emergency services on both sides of the border. Efforts are now under way to prevent further escalation and to facilitate safe conditions for displaced families to return to their homes.
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