Tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border have escalated sharply in early December 2025, with multiple provinces witnessing renewed clashes. The breakdown of the ceasefire agreement, initially brokered in mid-2025, has led to casualties on both sides and displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians. Both nations have accused each other of initiating hostilities, while international organizations have urged restraint and dialogue. This article provides a neutral, fact-based overview of the current situation, historical context, and humanitarian impact.
Renewed Clashes Along the Border
Fighting has intensified across five to six border provinces, threatening ancient sites such as Preah Vihear and Ta Krabey. Both Thailand and Cambodia have reported casualties, including military personnel and civilians, with fatalities currently estimated at 11.
Weapons and Tactics
Reports indicate the use of heavy artillery, mortars, BM-21 rockets, and airstrikes. The Thai Air Force has deployed F-16 jets against Cambodian positions, while both sides continue to accuse each other of provocative actions.
Mass Displacement
Over 500,000 civilians have been displaced since the resurgence of hostilities. In Thailand, more than 400,000 residents have sought shelter across seven provinces, while over 101,000 Cambodians have relocated to temporary shelters or relatives’ homes. Many are staying in overcrowded pagodas, schools, and government-run centers.
Breakdown of the Ceasefire
The ceasefire, brokered by US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in July 2025 and formalized in October, collapsed largely due to disagreements over landmine placement. Thai authorities suspended ceasefire implementation after Thai soldiers were injured by landmine explosions, which Thailand claimed Cambodia had recently laid in the disputed areas. Cambodia denies these accusations.
Both countries continue to exchange blame: Thailand alleges repeated Cambodian provocations and violations of its sovereignty, while Cambodia accuses Thailand of unprovoked incursions. The mutual distrust has made dialogue and ceasefire restoration challenging.
Geopolitical and Diplomatic Responses
International Mediation Efforts
President Trump has publicly expressed concern and indicated he would attempt diplomatic intervention to prevent further escalation.
International organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union, along with neighboring countries like Singapore, have issued statements urging restraint and a return to negotiations. These calls emphasize the need for both nations to avoid actions that could exacerbate regional instability.
Statements from Leadership
Cambodia’s Senate President, Hun Sen, has declared that Cambodia is prepared to defend its territory, stressing that the country has been “forced to fight back.” Meanwhile, Thailand maintains that it is responding defensively to perceived provocations.
Historical Context of the Dispute
The current conflict reflects a century-old border dispute rooted in colonial-era agreements and national identity.
Colonial-Era Origins (1904–1907)
The Franco-Siamese treaties established the Dangrek Mountains watershed as the border, but French surveyors produced a 1907 map (Annex I) that deviated in some areas, placing several ancient Khmer temples in Cambodian territory. Thailand views this as a colonial imposition.
Preah Vihear Temple
The 11th-century Preah Vihear Temple remains a flashpoint. In 1962, the International Court of Justice ruled that the temple is on Cambodian territory. Tensions reignited in 2008 when the temple became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although ICJ rulings reaffirmed Cambodian sovereignty, Thailand continues to contest surrounding areas.
Unresolved Demarcation
Several contested areas remain, including Prasat Ta Muen Thom and Prasat Ta Krabey. Disagreements over landmine placement in these zones have contributed directly to the recent escalation.
Humanitarian Crisis
The fighting has created a severe humanitarian situation affecting over half a million people.
Mass Displacement
- Thailand: 400,000 people relocated across seven provinces.
- Cambodia: 101,000 civilians evacuated to safer areas.
- Shelters: Overcrowded pagodas, schools, and temporary camps.
Civilian Risks
Heavy weapons have struck civilian areas, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and infrastructure damage. A gas station in Thailand was hit by rocket fire, killing eight, including a child. The presence of unexploded ordnance poses long-term risks.
Infrastructure Damage
Hospitals, homes, and other essential infrastructure have been damaged, limiting the ability of local authorities to provide aid. Immediate humanitarian assistance and long-term reconstruction efforts are urgently needed.
The Thailand-Cambodia border conflict represents a complex mix of historical grievances, national identity, and contemporary security concerns. The recent escalation has led to significant casualties, displacement, and humanitarian challenges. International calls for restraint and renewed dialogue highlight the urgent need for a sustainable resolution. While the situation remains fluid, careful monitoring and neutral reporting are essential for understanding both the human and geopolitical dimensions of the conflict.
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