Thailand-Cambodia Border Clash Hits 4th Day

Thai and Cambodian troops faced off for the fourth consecutive day today, trading shells and gunfire in a border dispute. At least two Thais and three Cambodians have died in the clashes, as “yellow shirt” nationalist protesters in Bangkok call for the government’s resignation. The 2-square-mile area in question surrounds the 900-year-old Preah Vihear temple, Reuters reports.

Analysts have offered multiple explanations for the clashes: Thai generals and nationalists may be aiming to dismantle the government, or the fighting may have stemmed from Cambodia having installed national symbols in the area. Cambodia’s prime minister is seeking UN involvement, citing “repeated acts of aggression” from Thailand. The Thai PM called the country’s actions “self-defense,” saying Cambodia had opened fire on Friday and yesterday. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says he's “deeply concerned” and called for the countries to find a “lasting solution.”