Violence is flaring again on the Thai-Cambodian border. Why is it so contentious?

Tensions have erupted again along the Thailand-Cambodia border, with deadly clashes breaking out this week. Thailand launched airstrikes on Cambodian military positions Thursday, following two landmine blasts that severely injured Thai soldiers.

The violence stems from a long-standing dispute over territory near the Emerald Triangle, where Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos meet. Thai officials said one soldier lost a leg in a landmine blast on July 16. A second explosion Wednesday injured five more, leaving another soldier amputated.

Both sides have accused the other of provoking the conflict. “We acted in self-defense,” a Thai military spokesperson said. Cambodian leaders issued a similar claim.

Despite public pledges to de-escalate, both nations have increased troop presence along the border. Thailand seized border checkpoints and imposed movement restrictions. Officials also threatened to cut utilities to Cambodian towns.

In response, Cambodia banned imports of Thai produce and halted the broadcast of Thai entertainment content.

A History of Conflict

The Thailand-Cambodia border stretches 508 miles and was largely drawn during France’s colonial rule of Cambodia. Disputes over the line have sparked military clashes over the years.

Cambodia previously appealed to the United Nations’ International Court of Justice (ICJ) to resolve boundary issues. But Thailand rejects the ICJ’s authority and claims parts of the border remain undefined.

The current conflict erupted near the same region as a deadly 2011 clash at Preah Vihear. That incident killed at least 20 people and displaced thousands on both sides.

Much of the tension centers on historical sites. Ancient temples, including Preah Vihear, remain flashpoints for military and cultural disputes.

Political Fallout in Thailand

The latest violence has led to political upheaval in Thailand. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended in July after a leaked call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.

In the 17-minute recording, Shinawatra criticized the Thai military’s approach to the border dispute. The leak exposed possible rifts between her government and the armed forces.

Shinawatra, elected last year at age 38, is Thailand’s youngest prime minister in modern history. She now faces the possibility of permanent dismissal.

The scandal adds to Thailand’s ongoing political instability. The country has endured years of leadership changes, street protests, and military interventions.

Looking Ahead

With diplomatic ties now downgraded, both nations have recalled staff and halted communication. Analysts warn the situation could spiral into wider conflict unless both sides pull back.

A joint peacekeeping effort or regional mediation has yet to be proposed. For now, the border remains volatile, with no sign of easing tensions.

‍