Recent clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have intensified along their disputed border. On 24 July 2025, Thailand’s military launched air strikes on Cambodian positions after deadly skirmishes killed civilians and soldiers. Both countries accuse each other of violating sovereignty and escalating violence. Diplomatic ties have deteriorated sharply, with border closures and trade restrictions in place. The conflict centres on historical territorial disputes and contested temple sites.
Background of the Border Dispute
Thailand and Cambodia share over 800 kilometres of border. The boundaries stem from a 1907 French colonial map. Cambodia relies on this map to claim certain areas. Thailand argues the map is vague and rejects some territorial claims. The dispute includes key sites like the Preah Vihear and Prasat Ta Muen Thom temples. These locations have symbolic and strategic importance for both nations.
Recent Escalations and Military Actions
Recently, clashes intensified with the use of artillery and drones. Thailand accused Cambodia of laying landmines inside Thai territory. Cambodia denied this, citing leftover mines from past conflicts. Thailand responded with F-16 strikes targeting Cambodian military units. Cambodia claimed Thai forces crossed the border and initiated attacks. Both sides reported injuries and damage to military and civilian sites.
Significance of Prasat Ta Muen Thom
Prasat Ta Muen Thom is a Khmer temple complex near the border. It includes Hindu and Buddhist elements built by King Jayavarman VII. Thailand claims the temple lies within its territory, while Cambodia disputes this. The temple area witnessed early clashes in the recent conflict. Control over the site is tied to national pride and historical heritage.
Diplomatic Fallout and Economic Impact
Following clashes, Thailand and Cambodia downgraded diplomatic relations. Border crossings were closed except for essential travel. Cambodia banned Thai films and suspended imports of Thai goods including fuel and produce. Nationalist rhetoric heightened in both countries. Political instability in Thailand worsened after a leaked phone call involving the Prime Minister discussing the conflict.
Historical and Legal Context
The Preah Vihear temple dispute dates back decades. The International Court of Justice ruled in 1962 and again in 2013 that Preah Vihear belongs to Cambodia. Thailand rejected the court’s jurisdiction and did not fully implement demilitarised zones. Previous clashes resulted in deaths and displacement. The unresolved status fuels ongoing tensions and periodic violence.
Current Status and Outlook
The border remains tense with military presence on both sides. Diplomatic efforts have stalled amid mutual accusations. The conflict marks challenges in resolving colonial-era border disputes. It also puts stress on the role of cultural heritage in national identity. Continued violence risks further civilian harm and regional instability.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the impact of colonial-era border demarcations on current South and Southeast Asian interstate conflicts.
- Examine the role of cultural heritage sites in international territorial disputes and their effect on bilateral relations.
- Analyse the implications of military escalation between neighbouring countries on regional security and economic cooperation in ASEAN.
- Estimate the challenges in enforcing International Court of Justice rulings in sovereignty disputes and suggest measures to improve compliance.
