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What caused the recent fighting at the Cambodia-Thailand border?
The recent clashes are rooted in a long-standing border dispute over colonial-era boundaries and a disputed temple site near Preah Vihear. Tensions have flared up again with military actions, including strikes and bombings, leading to casualties and displacement on both sides.
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Are Thailand and Cambodia talking to resolve the conflict?
International efforts, including ASEAN talks and diplomatic shuttle diplomacy by China, have been ongoing to de-escalate the situation. However, despite these attempts, fighting continues, and no lasting ceasefire has been reached yet.
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How does this border conflict affect local communities?
The conflict has caused significant suffering for civilians, with over a million displaced and many fearing for their safety. Civilians living near the border face destruction, loss of homes, and disruption of daily life due to ongoing military actions.
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What is the international community doing about the clashes?
Countries and organizations like the US, China, and ASEAN are calling for peace and diplomatic solutions. While some nations are mediating, the persistent violence shows the complexity of the dispute and the difficulty in reaching an immediate resolution.
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Could this conflict escalate further?
Yes, if diplomatic efforts fail and military actions continue, the conflict could intensify, leading to more casualties and wider regional instability. Experts warn that ongoing tensions threaten to destabilize the fragile peace in the area.
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What are the historical reasons for the border dispute?
The conflict stems from colonial-era border demarcations and disputes over temple ruins near Preah Vihear. These issues have caused clashes in the past, with recent violence reigniting old tensions between the two nations.