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| Why Are Thailand and Cambodia Fighting? Full Explanation and What Might Happen Next. |
Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have reignited. A deadly clash on their disputed border left at least 12 people dead on Thursday, July 24, 2025. This century-old conflict has entered a new and more serious phase.
Let’s break down why this conflict is happening, what’s at stake, and where the Thailand-Cambodia dispute could be headed next.
1. What Happened?
On Thursday (July 24), Thai and Cambodian troops clashed at the contested border. According to Thai authorities, at least 12 people were killed in the incident. This marks one of the most serious escalations between the two Southeast Asian nations in recent years.
Thailand immediately closed its borders and began evacuating its citizens. Cambodia cut diplomatic ties, accusing Thailand of using “excessive force.”
2. Where Did the Clash Occur?
The skirmish took place along the border between Thailand’s Buriram Province and northeastern Cambodia. This area has long been a flashpoint due to overlapping territorial claims—especially around the historic Preah Vihear Temple.
3. Why Are Thailand and Cambodia Fighting?
This conflict stems from a long-standing border dispute dating back to the colonial era. After French colonization in Cambodia, the demarcated borders became a point of contention.
In 2008, Cambodia attempted to register the Preah Vihear Temple as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sparking outrage in Thailand. Since then, armed clashes have occurred sporadically.
The latest skirmish reportedly started in May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border altercation. Since then, bilateral relations have plummeted to their lowest point in a decade.
4. Who Is Involved and How Have the Countries Responded?
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Thailand deployed more troops along the border and began evacuating civilians from conflict zones.
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Cambodia halted imports from Thailand, including fruit, vegetables, electricity, and internet services.
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, stated that the situation is “very sensitive” and must be handled according to international law.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said his country had “no choice” but to respond to armed aggression with force.
5. What Is the History of Thailand-Cambodia Relations?
This is far from the first time tensions have flared. Over the past 70 years, several key flashpoints include:
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1958 & 1961: Cambodia severed diplomatic ties with Thailand over temple disputes.
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2003: Thailand evacuated its nationals after anti-Thai riots in Phnom Penh.
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2008 & 2011: Military clashes erupted near Preah Vihear Temple.
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2009: Thailand downgraded diplomatic ties due to Cambodia’s support for exiled PM Thaksin Shinawatra.
6. What Might Happen Next?
Although tensions are high, many analysts believe the conflict is unlikely to escalate into full-scale war. Still, several factors complicate the situation:
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Cambodia is led by Hun Manet, who has yet to assert full authority like his father, Hun Sen.
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Thailand is governed by a fragile coalition. PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra is under threat after the Constitutional Court suspended her, following leaked private conversations by Hun Sen.
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| Why Are Thailand and Cambodia Fighting? Full Explanation and What Might Happen Next. |
With both leaders on shaky ground, the risk of missteps and escalation remains. However, there is still room for diplomatic dialogue and international mediation if both sides choose peace.
The Thailand-Cambodia conflict is deeply rooted in history, political egos, and nationalism. Both nations now stand at a crossroads: escalate the confrontation or pursue a peaceful resolution.
The international community and ASEAN members are urged to encourage diplomacy—not war. Ultimately, it’s the border civilians who suffer the most from this prolonged conflict.