A Cambodian soldier was killed on Wednesday following a rare exchange of gunfire with Thai forces along a tense border area, Cambodian military officials confirmed.

The incident occurred near the northern Cambodian province of Preah Vihear, which borders Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province. According to Cambodian Royal Army spokesman Mao Phalla, the clash erupted while Cambodian troops were on routine border patrol.

“One of our soldiers died during the fight, and there were some injuries, but we don't have detailed figures yet,” Phalla said. He accused Thai forces of initiating the attack, stating: “Our soldiers died in the trenches. The Thais came to attack us.”

In a statement, the Royal Thai Army said the confrontation began when Cambodian soldiers opened fire near Thai territory. Thai troops reportedly responded, and the ensuing exchange of gunfire lasted approximately 10 minutes before the Cambodian side requested a ceasefire.

Tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors have flared periodically, especially in regions near the 900-year-old Preah Vihear temple — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the subject of a prolonged territorial dispute. In 2008, clashes over the temple area led to sporadic violence and at least 28 deaths over several years. The conflict cooled after the International Court of Justice ruled in 2013 that the disputed land belonged to Cambodia.

Wednesday’s clash marks a serious escalation in what has largely been a fragile peace in recent years. Both sides have not yet released full casualty figures or further details about the incident. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions are expected to follow. (ILKHA)