More than 500,000 people in Cambodia have been forced to evacuate after nearly two weeks of fighting on the border with Thailand. According to the government, many left their homes and schools to avoid gunfire and air strikes.
In the ongoing fighting, both sides reportedly used tanks, drones, and artillery. The death toll has reached 22 in Thailand and 19 in Cambodia, based on official reports.
The root of the conflict is the unclear border that was established during the colonial era, along with ancient temples that lie in the middle of the disputed area. One of these is Preah Vihear Temple, which has also been a source of violence in the past.
Cambodia and Thailand said they would hold a foreign ministers' meeting in Malaysia to try to de-escalate tensions. Thailand insisted a ceasefire was needed first, while Cambodia said it wanted peaceful talks.
Currently, hundreds of thousands of people are still in evacuation centers, and there are warnings of mines and bombs in some areas. People are hoping for a new ceasefire so they can return home safely.
