After the Clash: Lives Rebuilt Amidst Ruins

The aftermath of the Cambodia-Thailand border clash has left many like 63-year-old Soth Sim grappling with severe losses. His return to Phrong village revealed a devastated home and business, estimating damages around USD 100,000. Families are slowly coming back, hoping the ceasefire will last amidst uncertainty.

Soth Sim and his family had evacuated to a displacement camp, but with a truce in place, he found himself assessing what remains of his home. The once-thriving gas station he ran is now extensively damaged, echoing the destruction faced by many around the border region.

Neighbor Sok Duong also returned to a damaged home, but her piglets survived, offering a sliver of relief. As Cambodia and Thailand point fingers over the conflict's cause, a ceasefire, supported by global powers, seems to promise an end to immediate violence, though mistrust lingers.

(With inputs from agencies.)