A word about the Cambodia-Thailand conflict
Dear Friends,
I’m deeply saddened — and concerned — about the mounting military conflict along the Thai–Cambodian border.
The tensions between Thailand and Cambodia stem from a long history of rivalry, boundary disputes, mutual mistrust, and occasional armed conflict. In recent days, what had been an uneasy detente has escalated into actual hostilities, resulting in gunfire that has killed several soldiers and civilians. Both nations now feel angered and victimized by each other.
[Here’s the New York Times’ take on the crisis.]
Having worked in both countries for more than two decades, I know firsthand how intertwined our lives are. Many dear friends live and work in Thailand and Cambodia. Asia’s Hope operates 19 children’s homes in Cambodia and 10 in Thailand, and some of our graduates serve in both countries’ armed forces.
This conflict is incredibly complex. I don’t have the expertise—or the intent—to comment on specific political leaders, their decisions, or rhetoric. Instead, I invite you to join me in prayer:
Pray for Savorn, Tutu, and all our staff and children for protection, comfort, and peace.
Pray that the leaders of both nations will step back from the brink of war, and return to peaceful diplomacy.
We are closely monitoring the situation. At this time, there is no known direct threat to any of our homes, schools, or churches, and we are not asking anyone to cancel travel plans.
However, if you have any concerns or questions about upcoming trips to Cambodia or Thailand, please reach out. I — or someone from our office — will respond with the most current guidance based on updates from our partners.
Praying for peace,
John
John McCollum, Executive Director
Asia's Hope
http://www.asiashope.org
cell: 614.804.6233
296 West Fourth Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43201