BANGKOK/PHNOM PENH — The most intense border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia in over a decade continue to escalate. Artillery and rocket fire have been reported in at least six regions along the 500-mile disputed border, resulting in at least 16 fatalities — including civilian casualties — and the displacement of more than 130,000 people.
Prime Minister Warns of Escalation
According to Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, a full-scale war can no longer be ruled out, as heavy weapons are now being deployed across large areas of the border.
Airstrikes and Artillery: F-16 Jets Target Cambodian Positions
Thailand has deployed U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets to carry out targeted strikes on what it claims are Cambodian military sites. Both sides have accused one another of provoking the escalation.
Civilian Casualties and Mass Evacuations
Thailand:
- At least 11 to 14 civilian deaths, including an eight-year-old boy
- Approximately 30 people injured
- More than 130,000 residents evacuated
Cambodia:
- At least one civilian killed, five injured
- Over 20,000 internally displaced persons
- At least 1,500 families evacuated
State of Emergency
Thailand has declared martial law in eight of its border provinces in an effort to maintain control over the deteriorating situation. The Thai government has rejected any third-party mediation attempts, insisting that the issue be resolved through bilateral dialogue.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet had initially accepted mediation proposals put forward by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, current ASEAN chair. However, Thailand later withdrew its support for such efforts.
International Response & UN Involvement
- United States: Called for an immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians
- China, EU, Australia, and France: Urged both sides to de-escalate and return to the negotiating table
- United Nations Security Council: Scheduled to convene on July 25 at Cambodia’s request to address the crisis
Historical Background
The Thai-Cambodian border conflict dates back over a century, stemming largely from colonial-era disputes over culturally significant sites such as Preah Vihear and Ta Moan Thom temples. Tensions have resurfaced repeatedly, including recent skirmishes in May and June 2025, which led to the death of a Cambodian soldier and the closure of several border crossings, as well as a breakdown in diplomatic ties.
Can a Diplomatic Solution Be Reached?
The worsening border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia marks a dangerous turning point in their long-standing territorial dispute. With airstrikes, mass displacement of civilians, and mutual threats of war, the situation appears to be nearing a critical threshold. While international actors advocate for mediation, Thailand insists on bilateral resolution. Whether a diplomatic solution can be found will likely determine the future stability of the region.
Border Conflict Has No Impact on Tourism
Despite the recent military clashes along remote areas of the Thailand-Cambodia border, tourism in both countries remains completely unaffected. The conflict zones are far removed from the main tourist destinations, and local authorities as well as international observers confirm that travelers to Thailand and Cambodia can continue their visits safely and without concern. The decades-old border dispute poses no risk to popular travel areas.
(zai)
Map Source: BBC