Bangkok: Thailand and Cambodia exchanged fire along their border on Thursday, sharply escalating tensions and leaving at least nine civilians dead.
The Thai military said the biggest casualties were reported in Si Sa Ket province, where six people were killed after a shooting at a gas station. At least 14 people have been injured across the three border provinces.
Relations between the Southeast Asian neighbours have deteriorated rapidly since an armed clash in May that killed a Cambodian soldier.
Meanwhile, China expressed deep concern over the ongoing tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular press conference on Thursday that China hopes both sides will resolve their issues through dialogue and consultation, adding that China will play a constructive role in promoting de-escalation.
