Thailand and Cambodia Clash in Deadliest Conflict in a Decade

A fragile peace has broken down as Thailand and Cambodia plunge into their most violent border conflict in more than a decade. What started as minor skirmishes on July 24 has escalated into widespread combat involving heavy artillery, rocket fire, and airstrikes.

Military Escalation and Civilian Impact

Eastern Thailand and northwestern Cambodia have become active war zones. As of July 25:

• At least 16 people have been killed, including civilians and military personnel.

• Over 120,000 civilians have been displaced, most of them from Thailand’s Sisaket province.

• The Thai military has launched F-16 airstrikes, while Cambodian forces have responded with BM-21 rocket systems.

• Civilian infrastructure has suffered major damage, including a school, hospital, and a petrol station hit by rocket fire. 

Fighting has broken out in at least 12 locations along the disputed border. The Ta Muen Thom temple area, long a source of territorial dispute, has seen some of the heaviest exchanges. Local residents report a terrifying atmosphere, with constant explosions and widespread destruction.

Accusations from Both Sides

Cambodia has accused Thailand of using cluster munitions and initiating airstrikes. Thailand denies the use of banned weapons and blames Cambodian forces for deliberately targeting civilian areas.

Thailand’s Ministry of Defense stated, “We are responding to Cambodian aggression in defense of our territory.”
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet countered, “We are protecting our people from an unprovoked attack.”

Diplomatic Breakdown

Peace efforts led by ASEAN and the United Nations have stalled. While Cambodia supports a Malaysia-led ceasefire initiative, Thailand has rejected it, insisting on bilateral negotiations only. Cambodia has appealed to the UN Security Council for immediate intervention.

A leaked phone call between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen has further damaged trust, with both sides accusing each other of betrayal and provocation.

Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds

Thailand has evacuated over 100,000 people from the border area, setting up temporary shelters across multiple provinces. Cambodia has relocated thousands of its citizens from the conflict zone. Humanitarian organizations warn of food shortages, overcrowded shelters, and growing medical needs.

The Broader Context

The roots of the conflict stretch back decades, involving disputed border demarcations, national pride, and political instability. Analysts fear that the current violence could spill over into a broader regional crisis if not contained.

What’s Next?

The UN Security Council has held an emergency session. ASEAN continues to push for peace, but tensions remain high on both sides. With no ceasefire in sight, the risk of a prolonged conflict grows.