Why are Thailand and Cambodia fighting at the border?

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have erupted into violence along their shared border, leading to the deaths of at least 12 Thai nationals, most of whom were civilians. The exact number of casualties on the Cambodian side remains unknown. The conflict, which began with gunfire and escalated to rocket attacks and air strikes, has both countries blaming each other for the outbreak. Thailand accuses Cambodia of firing rockets after an initial exchange, while Cambodia claims Thai soldiers violated agreements and initiated the conflict.

The roots of this dispute go back over a century, to when the borders between Thailand and Cambodia were drawn after the French left Cambodia. The situation became especially tense in 2008, when Cambodia tried to register an ancient temple in the disputed area as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thailand strongly opposed this move, leading to protests and sporadic clashes over the years. These confrontations have resulted in deaths on both sides, involving both soldiers and civilians. The latest escalation began in May, after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border clash. Since then, relations between the two countries have worsened, with both imposing restrictions on border crossings and trade. Cambodia has banned imports from Thailand, including fruits, vegetables, power, and internet services. Both nations have also increased their military presence along the border.

On the day of the recent fighting, Thailand’s National Security Council reported that Cambodian troops used drones to monitor Thai soldiers near the border. Soon after, Cambodian soldiers carrying rocket-propelled grenades gathered nearby. Thai soldiers attempted to negotiate by shouting, but were unsuccessful. According to Thailand, Cambodian soldiers opened fire, forcing the Thai side to respond. Cambodia, on the other hand, claims that Thai soldiers advanced on a temple, placed barbed wire around it, and fired shots into the air before opening fire on Cambodian troops. Both sides accuse each other of using heavy weapons and causing damage to civilian infrastructure, including homes, a hospital, and a petrol station.

Despite the violence, both countries’ leaders have expressed a desire to resolve the dispute peacefully. Thailand’s acting prime minister described the situation as delicate and stressed the need for careful handling in line with international law. Cambodia’s prime minister said his country wants peace but must defend itself if attacked. Experts believe that, as in previous incidents, the fighting will likely de-escalate soon. For now, the violence is limited to a small area along the border. The British Foreign Office has not issued a specific travel warning but advises caution near the border, especially at popular tourist sites like the Preah Vihear temple. China has also advised its citizens in Cambodia to avoid the Thai border. The situation remains tense, but there is hope that both sides will avoid a larger conflict.