Deep-Rooted Border Dispute Underpins Fresh Thailand–Cambodia Clashes
Territorial ambiguity dating to colonial-era maps and recent security incidents fuel renewed fighting and mass displacement
The latest wave of border violence between Thailand and Cambodia stems from a deep-rooted territorial conflict that dates back more than a century, exacerbated by recent security incidents and disputed ceasefire commitments.
The core of the dispute lies in conflicting interpretations of colonial-era boundary maps, particularly those drawn under French rule in 1907. These maps underpin overlapping claims to ancient temple sites and surrounding land — notably around complex areas near the border.
The resulting ambiguity has long sustained tensions between the two neighbours.
In 2025, tensions escalated sharply.
In July, heavy fighting broke out across a dozen contested border points, the most extensive conflict in over a decade, displacing hundreds of thousands and leaving dozens dead.
A ceasefire reached later that month via international mediation — including support from third-party actors — briefly halted open hostilities.
Under the agreement, both sides began withdrawing heavy weapons.
However, the ceasefire remained fragile.
In recent weeks, a Thai soldier was maimed by a landmine — which the Thai government says was newly planted by Cambodian forces.
Cambodia denies responsibility.
Thailand responded by suspending its commitment to de-escalation protocols and closed multiple border checkpoints.
The latest clashes erupted after Thailand launched airstrikes on perceived Cambodian military installations, citing concerns over rocket systems said to threaten civilian infrastructure.
Cambodia condemned the strikes as unprovoked and accused Thailand of targeting civilian areas.
Both sides report casualties — among civilians and military personnel — and tens of thousands of residents have evacuated across the border region.
Analysts argue that Cambodia, smaller in military capacity compared with Thailand, may be engaging in irregular skirmishes aimed at scoring symbolic or political gains, rather than seeking a conventional victory.
The pace and intensity of recent clashes — including the use of heavy artillery, mines and air power — reflect a dangerous risk of broader escalation.
As displacement mounts and once again engulfs both Thai and Cambodian border communities, the unresolved colonial-era territorial dispute, combined with recent violent triggers, leaves the prospects for durable peace uncertain.
The coming days may determine whether diplomacy can revive de-escalation efforts — or whether the confrontation will persist, further destabilising the region.
The core of the dispute lies in conflicting interpretations of colonial-era boundary maps, particularly those drawn under French rule in 1907. These maps underpin overlapping claims to ancient temple sites and surrounding land — notably around complex areas near the border.
The resulting ambiguity has long sustained tensions between the two neighbours.
In 2025, tensions escalated sharply.
In July, heavy fighting broke out across a dozen contested border points, the most extensive conflict in over a decade, displacing hundreds of thousands and leaving dozens dead.
A ceasefire reached later that month via international mediation — including support from third-party actors — briefly halted open hostilities.
Under the agreement, both sides began withdrawing heavy weapons.
However, the ceasefire remained fragile.
In recent weeks, a Thai soldier was maimed by a landmine — which the Thai government says was newly planted by Cambodian forces.
Cambodia denies responsibility.
Thailand responded by suspending its commitment to de-escalation protocols and closed multiple border checkpoints.
The latest clashes erupted after Thailand launched airstrikes on perceived Cambodian military installations, citing concerns over rocket systems said to threaten civilian infrastructure.
Cambodia condemned the strikes as unprovoked and accused Thailand of targeting civilian areas.
Both sides report casualties — among civilians and military personnel — and tens of thousands of residents have evacuated across the border region.
Analysts argue that Cambodia, smaller in military capacity compared with Thailand, may be engaging in irregular skirmishes aimed at scoring symbolic or political gains, rather than seeking a conventional victory.
The pace and intensity of recent clashes — including the use of heavy artillery, mines and air power — reflect a dangerous risk of broader escalation.
As displacement mounts and once again engulfs both Thai and Cambodian border communities, the unresolved colonial-era territorial dispute, combined with recent violent triggers, leaves the prospects for durable peace uncertain.
The coming days may determine whether diplomacy can revive de-escalation efforts — or whether the confrontation will persist, further destabilising the region.
