Thailand vs. Cambodia

I am sure that most of you have not  heard that there is fighting going on between Thailand and Cambodia at the moment!  CNN news hasn't covered the story yet, and I doubt they will until things get really really serious.

BUT, if you're interested, here's the story....

Preah Vihear Province is to the north and borders Thailand.  There is a Hindu temple/sanctuary atop a hill very close to the border.  Years ago Cambodia was awarded the temple as part of the country, but there are several hectares of land surrounding the area that continue to be in dispute.  Thailand claims the land is theirs and so does Cambodia.  Several months ago the argument over this land and even the temple was renewed causing both sides to place military personnel and equipment along the border.  There hasn't been any real fighting...until yesterday.  Here's a link to a news story you can read to fill you in on more of the situation.

http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE49E3U720081015

Because we are so far from the border and Preah Vihear we don't feel any threat of this skirmish, but if things escalate any further we'll keep you posted on our situation.  CAMA does have one couple in the border town of Poipet who are feeling the tensions and have plans in place if they feel the need to leave the city.  Pray for them, their wisdom in how to handle the situation and for their safety.  They have told us that the past two days have been extremely tense in Poipet and the border crossing is officially closed.

Most of us are hoping that the situation will be resolved quickly and without further fighting and loss of life (2 Cambodians have died already).  Pray for the Prime Ministers on each side to have 'cool heads' and to make wise decisions.  Pray especially for Thailand whose government is in upheaval as it is already!

We'll keep you posted if anything else big happens.