Disputed Border Clashes Between Thailand and Cambodia

On December 8, tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated dramatically after Thailand launched airstrikes into Cambodia. The conflict centers around a disputed border area, with both countries accusing each other of violating a U.S.-brokered ceasefire established in October.

Recent Developments

• On December 12, after discussions with both nations' leaders, US President announced an agreement to cease hostilities.
• Despite this, Thailand has stated it will continue military action until it deems the threats neutralized.

Background of the Conflict

• In May 2025, tensions rose when a Cambodian soldier was killed, leading to military buildup and diplomatic strain.
• Escalating violence in July involved artillery and airstrikes, resulting in at least 48 deaths and over 300,000 displaced individuals.
• A U.S.-mediated ceasefire was established with Malaysian assistance and formalized in October.
• In November, Thailand suspended the ceasefire implementation, accusing Cambodia of planting new landmines.

Core Issue: Sovereignty Dispute

• The conflict is rooted in colonial-era treaties from 1904 and 1907 between France (former ruler of Cambodia) and Siam (Thailand).
• The agreements intended the boundary to follow the Dangrek Mountains watershed, but French maps placed ancient Khmer temples, notably Preah Vihear, in Cambodia.
• The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 1962 that Preah Vihear belonged to Cambodia, but surrounding territories remained disputed.

Nationalist Sentiments and Mediation Efforts

• Nationalist sentiments complicate the issue, with temples symbolizing historical Khmer glory for Cambodia and territorial integrity for Thailand.
• From 2008 to 2011, deadly clashes occurred due to Cambodia's attempt to list Preah Vihear as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Efforts by ASEAN, under Indonesia's leadership in 2011, and other external mediators have failed to resolve the dispute.
• In 2025, renewed fighting led to further mediation, with US President leveraging economic threats to broker an unconditional ceasefire.

Path to Resolution

• De-escalation efforts should focus on verifiable troop withdrawals and joint de-mining initiatives.
• Consistency in bilateral engagement through joint commissions is vital for border demarcation.
• Thailand favors bilateral talks, while Cambodia is open to third-party involvement, necessitating reconciliation of these approaches.