Overview:
A simmering conflict has reignited between Thailand and Cambodia. Border disputes surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple were previously adjudicated by the International Court of Justice (ICJ); however, these rulings are non-binding, leading to a renewal of hostilities on multiple occasions — with crises in 2008–2011 and now again in 2025.
Then: Treaties, the ICJ, and the 2008–2011 Border Crisis
The Emerald Triangle, a region shared by Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, is a lush area rich in cultural heritage and biodiversity. Despite its potential for cooperation, decolonization left behind a number of unresolved territorial disputes. One of the most significant is between Thailand and Cambodia.
The Franco-Siamese Treaties of 1904 and 1907 were meant to define the border but instead introduced further confusion. The text and corresponding maps conflicted, leaving the fate of crucial land — including the sacred Preah Vihear Temple — uncertain.
In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favor of Cambodia, granting it sovereignty over the temple. However, the ruling left ambiguity over adjacent lands. Thailand expressed reservations and never fully accepted the verdict.
From 2008 to 2011, a series of armed skirmishes reignited around the Preah Vihear area, situated between Cambodia’s Preah Vihear Province and Thailand’s Sisaket Province. Thai troops were accused of entering contested areas near the Keo Sikhakirisvara Pagoda, prompting violent exchanges. Cambodia condemned these as territorial encroachments, while Thailand cited unclear demarcations.
The ICJ reaffirmed its ruling in 2013, clarifying that the elevated terrain surrounding Preah Vihear belonged to Cambodia. Yet, resentment and distrust between the nations endured.
Now: Skirmishes, Ceasefires, and Unresolved Tension
On May 28, 2025, a deadly skirmish broke out between Thai and Cambodian patrols near the Emerald Triangle. It claimed the life of one Cambodian soldier. Both sides denied responsibility and blamed the other for instigating the clash.
Despite a ceasefire agreement reached on July 28, 2025, intermittent fighting has persisted. Allegations of disinformation campaigns have further complicated diplomatic efforts.
Cambodia accused Thailand of deploying chemical agents, a claim that was later disproven. In turn, Thailand alleged that Cambodian forces flew drones into its territory and fired into Thai positions. Meanwhile, Cambodia claimed Thailand had fired mortars across the border.
These accusations, emerging as recently as late September 2025, underscore the fragile nature of peace. They reveal the deep mistrust that continues to shape relations between the two nations.
Tomorrow: The Path Forward
The future of the Cambodian-Thai border dispute remains uncertain. Many details of recent confrontations are poorly documented or contradictory, complicating assessments of what truly transpired.
Cambodia has again submitted a request to the International Court of Justice for a more definitive border clarification. On the other hand, Thailand insists that disputes should remain bilateral and outside ICJ jurisdiction. Historically, Thailand has rejected ICJ rulings — a stance that seems unlikely to change.
Analysts suggest that Cambodia’s push to internationalize the conflict may be strategic. They believe Cambodia hopes to apply diplomatic pressure on Thailand. Thailand’s military capabilities far exceed Cambodia’s, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).
Meanwhile, Laos — which shares part of the Emerald Triangle — has maintained neutrality, prioritizing economic stability over political entanglement.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has echoed calls for calm, urging restraint and dialogue. Similarly, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia have advocated peaceful negotiation. Malaysia is reportedly playing a key role in brokering the July ceasefire.
Russia has used the opportunity to criticize colonial-era border demarcations. Meanwhile, the United States continues to back diplomatic resolution efforts, emphasizing dialogue and regional stability.
Ultimately, whether this latest flare-up ends through diplomatic patience or another international ruling remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that this century-old conflict still shapes the geopolitics of Southeast Asia. It affects the balance between sovereignty, history, and peace.
Sources
- Newsweek — Thailand vs. Cambodia: Military Power Comparison
- Associated Press — Thailand, Cambodia Soldiers Clash on Border
- Associated Press — Armed Clash at Thai-Cambodian Border
- JSTOR — The Thai-Cambodian Border Dispute and the 1962 ICJ Decision
Editor’s Note
This article reflects the research and analysis of the author. The views expressed are those of the contributor and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Presence News.
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