Thailand–Cambodia Border Conflict Escalates: 16 Dead, Over 120,000 Flee Their Homes

Date: July 25, 2025 — Northeast Thailand & Cambodia border

A sudden flare-up in the long-standing territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has resulted in at least 16 deaths—including 14 civilians, one soldier in Thailand, and one civilian in Cambodia—and forced over 120,000 people to evacuate from border regions on both sides .

Violent Escalation Across the Frontier

Armed clashes erupted on July 24 near the contested Preah Vihear/Prasat Ta Moan Thom temple area and rapidly expanded across 12 border locations. Cambodian forces reportedly deployed BM-21 rocket launchers, while Thailand responded with F‑16 fighter jet airstrikes, marking a major escalation in a conflict unseen in over a decade .

Civilians Caught in the Crossfire

In Thailand’s Surin and Sisaket provinces, a Cambodian rocket strike hit a busy petrol station, killing many civilians. At least one hospital was also struck, prompting Thai officials to accuse Cambodia of violating international humanitarian norms. Cambodian casualties include one confirmed civilian death and several injuries. Officials report some 29 soldiers and 30 civilians wounded across both nations .

Mass Displacement and Emergency Measures

With hostilities raging, Thailand imposed martial law across eight eastern districts and established over 300 evacuation centres. More than 138,000 Thai residents—including patients from hospitals—have sought refuge, while 20,000 Cambodians along the Preah Vihear/ Oddar Meanchey region have also been relocated to safety .

Evacuees describe fear, sudden displacement, and makeshift shelters, many in schools, temples or university gyms. Basic needs remain unmet amidst growing uncertainty .

Historical Context and Diplomatic Fallout

The conflict stems from unresolved colonial-era boundaries drawn in 1907. After the International Court of Justice (ICJ) awarded Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia in 1962 and reaffirmed that ruling in 2013, tensions persisted, particularly near disputed territories within what’s known as the Emerald Triangle .

Recent trigger events include the death of a Cambodian soldier in May, allegations of landmine deployment, and diplomatic ruptures—including Thailand recalling Cambodia’s ambassador and imposing border closures .

International Response and Mediation Efforts

Malaysia—as ASEAN chair—offered a ceasefire plan, which Cambodia initially accepted but which Thailand later retracted. Cambodia has petitioned the UN Security Council, demanding international intervention, while Thailand insists on bilateral resolutions conditioned on Cambodia ceasing hostilities .

Calls for restraint and peace have come from global actors including ASEAN, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and regional powers like China and the European Union .

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Why This Matters

1. This conflict is the deadliest Thailand–Cambodia border clash in over a decade, marked by high civilian casualties and significant displacement.
2. It signals a rapid escalation of a long-dormant dispute over sovereignty, fueled by nationalism and diplomatic failure.
3. The crisis creates a regional humanitarian emergency, with thousands displaced and exposed to violence.
4. International mediation remains urgent to prevent further loss of life and to restore peace.