Jingoism goes too far

As the border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia drag into a second week, it has become increasingly clear that the fighting has spiralled far beyond any reasonable proportion.

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Operating under the dangerous logic that the ends justify the means, Thailand resorted to airstrikes from the earliest days of the conflict, prompting Cambodia to respond with BM-21 multiple rocket launchers. Heavy casualties and widespread destruction have followed. Beyond the toll on flesh and blood, the latest casualty of this conflict is the Ta Khwai sanctuary, an ancient site located in the overlapping area between the two countries.

Just months ago, Thai troops attempted and failed to seize the strategically significant location, which would grant its occupier a military advantage. This time, however, they appear to have met with more success (news reports on Monday said they had retaken the sanctuary). Yet they appear to have made little effort to spare the structure itself. Video clips showing the top of the sanctuary's main tower being blown apart are heartbreaking for anyone who values cultural heritage.