Pope Leo XIV expressed his “deep sadness” on Wednesday over the escalation of the conflict on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. “I am deeply saddened by the news of the escalation of the conflict on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. There have been civilian casualties, and thousands of people have had to flee their homes,” the pontiff declared during his general audience.

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At least 13 people have died and more than 100 have been injured in the military clashes that intensified since Sunday at various points along the 820-kilometer shared border. In Cambodia, the civilian death toll rose from seven to nine, with 46 injured and 127,133 evacuated. In Thailand, at least 68 people were injured and more than 400,000 were displaced.

Leo XIV called on both sides to “cease fire immediately and resume dialogue,” assuring them of his closeness in prayer “to these beloved peoples.” The fighting, which included air operations The attacks by Thailand represent the deadliest escalation since the clashes in late July, which left nearly 50 dead.

The conflict has its roots in the March 1907 treaty between the Kingdom of Siam and France, which established border limits that remain disputed today. Both governments accuse each other of initiating the attacks, leading to the de facto collapse of the peace agreement signed in October in Malaysia, brokered by Donald Trump, who has hinted at his possible renewed intervention.

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