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| Cambodian soldiers near Preah Vihear Temple in Cambodia's Preah Vihear province, bordering Thailand, in 2012 [File: Mak Remissa/EPA] |
Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have sharply escalated following a violent military clash at a disputed border area on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the potential for broader conflict in Southeast Asia.
The clash reportedly began Thursday morning, when Cambodian troops allegedly opened fire on a Thai military base near Tamuentom Temple, a long-disputed area between Thailand’s Surin Province and Cambodia’s ODAR Meanchey Province.
In response, the Thai military deployed F-16 fighter jets and launched airstrikes targeting Cambodian military units.
According to the Thai Eastern Military Command, two Cambodian support units were successfully destroyed in the strikes.
The incident took place just a day after a Thai soldier lost his leg in a landmine explosion near the border.
This attack further strained relations between the two neighboring countries, pushing diplomatic ties to their lowest point in recent years.
At least two Thai soldiers were reported injured in the attack. Additionally, three civilians were wounded after Cambodian forces allegedly fired into civilian areas in Kapoeng District.
Two hospitals in Surin Province began evacuating patients in anticipation of further casualties.
Cambodian Defense Ministry spokesperson, Lieutenant General Mali Suceta, claimed that Cambodian troops were responding to an unprovoked attack by Thai forces and acted purely in self-defense.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hun Manet accused Thailand of attacking Cambodian military positions in two provinces and declared that Cambodia had no choice but to retaliate.
However, he also urged Cambodian citizens to remain calm amid the growing conflict.
In a swift move, Thailand downgraded diplomatic relations with Cambodia.
The Thai government withdrew its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled the Cambodian ambassador from Bangkok, signaling a serious deterioration in bilateral relations.
So far, there is no sign of de-escalation. While international reactions remain limited, global observers are urging both sides to exercise restraint and seek a diplomatic resolution to avoid further bloodshed.
The situation remains highly volatile, with risks of further escalation if not managed properly.