Thailand’s leader has warned that clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, which have killed at least 16 people and displaced tens of thousands in both countries, could “move towards war”. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai added that the fighting now included heavy weapons and had spread to 12 locations along the border. Thailand also accused Cambodia of firing into civilian areas and evacuated all villages deemed to be within the radius of its rockets. Cambodia, for its part, accused Thailand of using cluster munitions. Cluster munitions are banned in much of the world because of their indiscriminate effect on civilian populations. Thailand has not responded to the allegations. Meanwhile, Thailand’s foreign minister told the Reuters news agency that there was “no need” for third-party mediation in the conflict, even as global leaders appealed for an immediate ceasefire. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who chairs the Association of South East Asian Nations, or Asean, had earlier offered to facilitate talks between the two countries. “I welcome the positive signals and willingness shown by both Bangkok and Phnom Penh to consider this path forward,” Anwar wrote on Facebook late Thursday. But Thai foreign ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura told Reuters that the situation must be solved through bilateral means, adding that Phnom Penh must stop its offensive moves.

Full report : Thailand warns clashes with Cambodia could ‘move towards war.’