Army reveals 20 hospitals and 201 health centers affected by border fighting
The Army condemns ongoing Cambodia’s attacks on civilian areas, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law
- The Army has disclosed that the fighting along the Thai-Cambodian border has impacted 20 hospitals and 201 health promotion hospitals in Thailand.
- The damage occurred due to Cambodia using weapons to target communities and civilian areas, which the Army considers a violation of humanitarian principles.
- Phanom Dong Rak Hospital is one of the facilities directly affected by rocket fire, in addition to the damage to many lives and properties of local civilians.
Maj Gen Winthai Suwaree, Army spokesman, condemned Cambodia's actions of using military force and weapons to attack civilian areas along the Thai-Cambodian border. He emphasized that these are not military zones but civilian areas, and such actions violate international humanitarian law and the principles of civilian protection. This has seriously affected innocent Thai citizens.
Widespread damage and casualties among border residents
The use of force in this manner has caused extensive loss and hardship for civilians in the border areas, affecting lives, property, and livelihoods. Approximately 400,000 people have been affected by the situation, with 23 confirmed deaths. Among them, one person died directly from a BM-21 rocket attack on their home, and 22 others died from indirect effects of the conflict. Additionally, six people were injured by the attacks. All casualties were innocent civilians who were not involved in the fighting.
Beyond the loss of life, these actions have caused severe damage to civilian property and infrastructure. At least 30 homes have been damaged, as well as agricultural areas, which are the primary source of income for many local residents. This has left many people unable to work or live their lives as usual.
Furthermore, 20 hospitals and 201 health promotion hospitals have been affected, with Phanom Dong Rak Hospital being directly hit by BM-21 rockets.
Educational disruption and its long-term impact
The ongoing insecurity has also forced many schools in the border areas to suspend classes. Children and youth have been unable to attend school as usual, missing out on educational opportunities, and are living in fear. This has severely and continuously impacted their quality of life and long-term stability.
The Army spokesman further stated that Cambodia’s indiscriminate attacks have led to increased damage and civilian casualties. Thai civilians should not become targets or suffer from military actions of this nature. The Army calls for Cambodia to immediately cease violent actions against innocent civilians and comply strictly with international law and humanitarian law.
