Thailand Imposes Martial Law in 8 Districts Amid Clashes With Cambodia

Thailand declared martial law in eight border districts on Friday following deadly clashes with Cambodia over the disputed Emerald Triangle region. The military's Border Defense Command confirmed the emergency measure across seven districts in Chanthaburi province and one in Trat province, while six national parks and wildlife sanctuaries along the border were ordered closed indefinitely.

The violence erupted near two ancient Khmer-era Hindu temples—Prasat Ta Muen Thom (claimed by Thailand) and Prasat Preah Vihear (claimed by Cambodia)—both sites of long-standing territorial disputes. Thursday’s clashes saw artillery, tanks, and ground troops deployed, with Thai authorities reporting 15 dead (14 civilians, 1 soldier) and over 138,000 evacuated. Cambodia confirmed one civilian killed and five wounded.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned the conflict "could develop into war" if tensions escalate further. "We have tried to compromise, but we must act decisively now," he stated. The UN Security Council has called an emergency meeting amid fears of a wider regional conflict.

The crisis revives decades-old tensions over the Cambodia-Thailand border, where sovereignty disputes around ancient temples have repeatedly sparked military confrontations. With both nations mobilizing forces, international mediation efforts are underway to prevent a full-scale war.