Situation as of 24 July 2025: Border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia

On Thursday, 24 July 2025, gunfire broke out on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. The clashes are considered the most serious crisis between the two countries in 15 years.

Civilian casualties: At least one death and three civilians wounded were reported during these incidents along the disputed border.

Maximum tensions: Relations between Phnom Penh and Bangkok are described as being at their lowest point in years, and the situation on the ground is very tense, with increased militarisation on both sides of the border.

Background and aggravating factors

• Origin of the conflict: The border dispute dates back to the colonial period, mainly around the Preah Vihear temple and other sensitive areas. Despite a ruling by the International Court of Justice in favour of Cambodia over the Preah Vihear promontory, Thailand still claims a 4.6 km² area at the foot of the temple.

• International involvement: Phnom Penh recently alerted the international community and referred the matter back to the International Court of Justice in an attempt to obtain arbitration on other sensitive areas (notably the ‘Emerald Triangle’ with the temples of Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Touch and Ta Krabei).

• Consequences for civilians: Reciprocal visa measures have been put in place, limiting the length of stay for citizens of both countries, and border posts have been closed intermittently since June 2025.

Reactions and outlook

• Calls for calm: Cambodian leaders, while denouncing Bangkok's responsibility for the escalation, have called for restraint and avoidance of provocation, including on social media. The appeal also aims to prevent tensions from escalating into ethnic hatred.

• Military mobilisation: Heavily armed troops have been deployed on both sides, with the risk of open conflict remaining very high according to analysts and reporters on the ground.

Événement	Détail (24 juillet 2025)
Exchange of fire	Yes, between Thai and Cambodian armies
Number of casualties	1 dead, 3 civilians wounded
Areas at risk	Near Preah Vihear and disputed border areas
International mobilisation	Referral to the ICJ, alerts to the UN
Recent measures	Visa restrictions, border post closures

The situation on the border between Thailand and Cambodia on 24 July 2025 is therefore very tense, marked by armed clashes, civilian casualties and a diplomatic impasse, with a risk of wider conflict heightened by regional geostrategic and economic issues.