Thai - Cambodia Conflict Thailand-Cambodia Border Tensions: Hospital Closures and Civilian Impact

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border continue to surge, with the latest clashes leaving a tragic mark on civilians. Dr. Warot Chotipityasunon, spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, reported at 11am today that 53 civilians have been affected, with 15 fatalities, a rise from yesterday.

 

These incidents predominantly occurred in Surin province, spotlighting the escalating human cost of this border conflict. Beyond the lives lost, 12 individuals are seriously injured, 13 moderately, and another 13 with minor injuries. The toll puts an immense strain on the region's healthcare services.

 

Fourteen remain hospitalised, 11 in severe condition. The impact on healthcare infrastructure is palpable. Twenty hospitals bear the brunt, with 13 completely closed and 7 partially functional. This curtails vital access to medical care for many residents.

 

The problem extends to local Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals (SHPHs), with 175 impacted, disrupting routine medical services. In response, 548 public health teams have been deployed out of 1,221 ready to provide emergency aid. These teams comprise a range of response units including Medical Emergency Response Teams (MERT), Mini MERT, and Mental Health Crisis Assessment and Treatment Teams (MCATT).

 

Mental health is another layer of crisis in this unfolding drama. Screening efforts have reached over 21,000 people, revealing that 293 are experiencing high stress levels, and 41 are at risk of suicide. MCATT units, staffed with mental health professionals, are crucially involved, offering support and intervention where it's needed most.

 

The fallout from the clashes paints a stark picture: People remain caught in the crossfire, with healthcare systems stretched and residents' mental well-being severely tested. Not only does this situation demand continued emergency health responses, but also an urgent need for peace and stability to alleviate the suffering.

 

The Thai government, international bodies, and local organisations are urged to focus efforts on securing a peaceful resolution to prevent further harm to civilians. The human cost is paramount, and protecting the safety and well-being of those in affected areas is of critical importance.

 

As the conflict unfolds, updates from the Ministry will continue to shed light on the needs and challenges faced by health services and civilians alike. For now, the focus remains on providing relief and care to those affected, hoping for calm and resolution in the days to come.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-29

 

 

[Gottfrid]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

hoping for calm and resolution in the days to come.

Yep, they say hope is the last thing that goes away.