Border Conflict Reignites Between Thailand and Cambodia

 The ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has escalated again in 2025, leading to severe air strikes, deadly clashes, and widespread civilian displacement. This military situation intensified after a Thai soldier was killed and several others wounded in clashes in Ubon Ratchathani province, and

In immediate response, Thailand launched a series of air strikes targeting Cambodian military bases. Both nations accuse each other of violating ceasefire agreements and initiating attacks,

and this situation has created a cycle of continuous retaliation and military buildup.

This border dispute, with a history spanning over a century, is a long-standing issue rooted in colonial-era border demarcations made by France in 1907. Mutual claims over territory have led to various conflicts over time, and a situation similar to the severe clashes of 2011 can be seen again in 2025. These clashes, which erupted in July 2025, have reportedly killed approximately 48 people and displaced over 300,000 people residing on both sides of the border.

The situation further deteriorated with new clashes and air strikes reported in December 2025, and as a result,

more lives were lost, and thousands of civilians were forced to flee in search of temporary shelter. In response to this escalating military situation, martial law has been imposed in several border districts of Thailand, and in retaliation, the Cambodian government has taken steps to ban the import of several types of Thai goods. A ceasefire agreement was reached in July 2025 through the mediation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and former US President Donald Trump, and another peace agreement was signed in October. However, both parties accusing each other of violating the agreements has hindered the establishment of peace.

Cambodia seeks the intervention of the United Nations or the assistance of the International Court of Justice for this issue, while Thailand is more inclined to seek solutions through bilateral discussions. As of December 2025, the regional situation remains highly uncertain and volatile, with both countries' militaries on high alert and diplomatic efforts underway to prevent further escalation of clashes. This conflict continues to severely impact civilian lives and regional stability, and both governments have warned that further military action may be taken if the crisis is not resolved immediately.