Tensions erupted into violence on Thursday as Thai and Cambodian soldiers traded gunfire in a contested border zone near the ancient Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple, located along Thailand’s Surin province and Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province. The clash, which followed a rapid deterioration in diplomatic ties, sent residents fleeing to concrete bunkers as explosions echoed through the area, according to a Thai livestream.

It remains unclear if the skirmish is ongoing or who fired first, with both nations pointing fingers. The conflict intensified after Cambodia downgraded diplomatic relations, recalling all embassy staff from Bangkok. This move came in response to Thailand closing its northeastern border crossings, withdrawing its ambassador, and expelling Cambodia’s envoy following a landmine explosion that injured five Thai soldiers.

The dispute traces back to May, when a Cambodian soldier died in a separate armed clash over one of several disputed border patches. The escalating feud, rooted in long-standing territorial claims, has heightened fears of further violence in the region.

Also Read: Thailand-Cambodia Border Tensions Explode Over Landmines

Also Read: Thailand-Cambodia Border Tensions Explode Over Landmines