Cambodia, Thailand escalate border tensions over disputed villages

Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have escalated due to unresolved border disputes, particularly in areas where the boundary remains undemarcated, such as near Pursat and Koh Kong provinces. Cambodia has expressed strong concerns over Thai reports accusing Cambodian citizens of encroaching on Thai territory, emphasizing that both nations have historically coexisted and cultivated these lands, and urging resolution through the Joint Commission for Demarcation of Land Boundary (JBC). A violent confrontation on September 17, triggered by Thai forces erecting a barbed wire fence, injured multiple Cambodians and heightened diplomatic tensions, with Cambodia condemning the violence and Thailand defending its actions as lawful. Cambodia also protested Thailand's intention to apply domestic law on Cambodian nationals in border villages, viewing it as a violation of international law and ASEAN commitments. Political dynamics further complicate the situation, including internal Thai government disputes over reopening border checkpoints and the influence of political figures connected to the military. Throughout, Cambodia has reiterated its commitment to peaceful resolution and adherence to international agreements, calling on Thailand to avoid escalating actions and to engage constructively through established border commissions.