Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced concern Monday over reports of renewed armed clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, including airstrikes and the mobilization of heavy equipment along the border.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the fighting has already caused civilian casualties, damage to infrastructure and displacement on both sides. Guterres stressed that both governments must protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian relief and avoid further escalation.
He urged the parties to recommit to the ceasefire and return to the framework of the Joint Declaration signed Oct. 26, implementing de-escalation and confidence-building measures.
“The United Nations stands ready to support all efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability, and development in the region,” Dujarric said.
Border clashes flared again from Sunday to Monday, with artillery fire reported in several areas and residents evacuating multiple provinces, less than two months after the two countries signed a peace declaration.