Hostility at Thailand-Cambodia border escalates, resulting in Surin Hospital's damage during a skirmish; patients are moved to safer locations.
The ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, which erupted on July 24, 2025, have resulted in a tragic series of events. The latest update shows that the conflict has caused at least 12 deaths and 31 injuries, the majority of whom are civilians [1][4].
One of the most distressing incidents occurred on July 25, 2025, when Phanom Dongrak Hospital in Surin Province, Thailand, was hit by Cambodian artillery shells [2]. The hospital, located near the conflict zone, suffered significant damage as confirmed by images and reports [2].
Secretary to the Minister of Public Health, Thanakrit Jit-areerat, posted images of the damage on Thursday [1]. The images show extensive damage to Phanom Dongrak Chalerm Phrakiat 80th Anniversary Hospital [1].
In response to the attack, emergency evacuation measures were immediately implemented to ensure the safety of patients and staff [1][2]. Injured patients were evacuated for safety, and the situation remains under close monitoring [1][2].
The Thai Army has clarified that the use of cluster munitions, which have been a concern, is aimed at military targets only [1]. However, the incident has left Thai soldiers in Surin on high alert for landmine risks due to the clashes [1].
The conflict has also led to the closure of Surin border schools following the clashes [1]. Additionally, both countries have recalled their ambassadors, and Thailand has closed northeastern border crossings with Cambodia [1].
International bodies, including ASEAN and the UN Security Council, are urging de-escalation and mediation to prevent further escalation [4][5]. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the conflict peacefully.
This reflects the situation as of July 28, 2025 [1][2][4][5]. The situation remains volatile, and updates are expected in the coming days.
[1] The Nation [2] Bangkok Post [3] Reuters [4] Al Jazeera [5] CNN
- The attack on Phanom Dongrak Hospital in Surin Province, Thailand, due to the border conflict with Cambodia, has highlighted the crucial need for infrastructure that can withstand such military actions.
- The health sector, particularly health-and-wellness facilities like Phanom Dongrak Hospital, must be prioritized in the infrastructure development to ensure the safety of civilians during war-and-conflicts.
- The disturbing incident at Phanom Dongrak Hospital raises concerns about the education of children in the region as schools near the border have been forced to close due to the conflict.
- In the midst of political turmoil and border clashes, the scientific community calls for urgent dialogue to find solutions for medical-conditions arising from accidents or injuries caused by war-and-conflicts.
- In the realm of general-news, crime-and-justice, and politics, international bodies continue to call for de-escalation to protect civilians, limit the impact on education and health, and enhance medical-conditions surrounding war-and-conflicts like the ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.