Escalation of the situation at the Thailand-Cambodia border! Latest updates as of July 27
The Thailand-Cambodia border conflict has lasted for four days: both sides continue shelling, and ground combat breaks out in the disputed area.
Although the main conflict zone is still considered a "gray area," reports indicate that the Thai army has taken control of Phumak hill. This high ground is adjacent to the disputed temple complex, and capturing it would allow the Thai military to advance toward the temples.
According to video evidence from the internet, both countries are massing troops along the border. Cambodia and Thailand have both deployed tanks and armored personnel carriers to the conflict area.
Yesterday, the Royal Thai Navy announced a heightened state of war readiness. This move is not without results. Now, a large number of Thai warships can be seen gathering near islands close to Cambodia. The naval commander has officially announced that a retaliatory operation against Cambodian actions will be launched, but the specific details have not been disclosed.
The scope of the border conflict is also expanding. For the first time since the escalation of the situation, ground combat occurred at the border between Trat province and Pursat province. It is speculated that the Thai side deployed the marine corps.
Despite both Thailand and Cambodia announcing support for the U.S.-mediated ceasefire proposal, as of today afternoon, armed conflicts at the Thailand-Cambodia border continue. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that only when Cambodia stops its armed attacks and makes confirmed actual actions to cease hostilities can the talks between the two sides begin.
Currently, both sides have not formally declared war, although some Thai spokespeople have said that war is not impossible. However, the greater possibility is that this round of small-scale conflict will last for a long time and is unlikely to end in the short term.
Escalation of tensions between Cambodia and Thailand
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1838791712957575/
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