Thailand and Cambodia Border Conflict Escalates with Heavy Artillery Exchange

Thailand and Cambodia News– July 2025

The Thailand and Cambodia border conflict has escalated with the exchange of heavy artillery fire for the second day in a row, as both nations continue their worst fighting in over a decade.

The clash started after Thailand and Cambodia accused each other of violating international rules and causing damage to civilians during artillery strikes.

Details of the Border Conflict

On July 25, Thailand and Cambodia engaged in intense fighting along their border. Thailand has accused Cambodia of using artillery to target civilian areas, including schools and hospitals.

Meanwhile, Cambodia has claimed that Thailand used cluster munitions, a controversial weapon banned under international law, to strike Cambodian military targets. The heavy shelling and explosions have caused severe damage on both sides of the border.

Military Action and Casualties

As the conflict intensifies, Thailand has deployed F-16 fighter jets to carry out airstrikes on Cambodia’s military installations. Cambodia, which does not have fighter aircraft, has faced significant military disadvantages, relying on ground artillery to retaliate.

So far, the fighting has led to numerous casualties, with over 130,000 people displaced in Thailand and several casualties reported in Cambodia. However, both governments have not provided detailed figures on the number of deaths and injuries.

International Calls for Ceasefire

The international community has expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict. The United States and Malaysia, members of the ASEAN bloc, have called for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution. However, Thailand’s foreign ministry has rejected third-party mediation, insisting on a bilateral approach to resolve the conflict.

Thailand’s Rejection of Mediation Efforts

Despite international efforts, Thailand remains firm in its position, with Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand’s acting Prime Minister, stating that the country will continue defending its territory and will not allow foreign interference in resolving the conflict.

The government insists that it is simply protecting its sovereignty and will respond to any further aggression from Cambodia.

Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts

The ASEAN has shown a willingness to mediate the conflict, with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urging both countries to engage in dialogue. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the situation on the ground remains tense, and the chances of escalation remain high unless a ceasefire is agreed upon soon.

Conclusion

The Thailand and Cambodia border conflict has reached a critical point, with heavy artillery exchanges and airstrikes making it one of the most intense clashes in years. While international calls for a ceasefire continue, the situation remains unresolved, and the possibility of further violence looms.

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References:

1. Thailand and Cambodia – Both countries involved in the border conflict.
2. Thailand-Cambodia live news: PM says Cambodia backed regional truce plan.
3. Cluster Munitions – Weapons at the heart of the ongoing controversy.
4. F-16 Fighter Jets – Used by Thailand in retaliatory airstrikes.
5. United Nations – Global body concerned about the human rights violations and civilian casualties caused by the ongoing conflict.