Thailand, Cambodia Clash Kills 35, Displaces 260,000 Amid Century-Old Border Dispute

The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, the deadliest in over a decade, has resulted in at least 35 deaths and displaced over 260,000 people, centered around disputed territories near ancient Khmer temples such as Ta Moan Thom and Preah Vihear. The clashes escalated following a series of incidents, including landmine injuries to Thai soldiers, air strikes, and rocket attacks, prompting both countries to expel each other's ambassadors. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire took place in Malaysia, with President Donald Trump initiating talks agreed upon by the Prime Ministers of Cambodia and Thailand. The dispute has deep historical roots tied to colonial-era border demarcations, with Thailand favoring a detailed 1:50,000 scale map developed in cooperation with the US, while Cambodia relies on a less detailed 1:200,000 French colonial map, a difference that underscores broader issues of sovereignty and national identity. The conflict also reflects the complex legacy of colonialism in Southeast Asia, where pre-colonial polities had fluid boundaries, and modern nation-state borders were imposed, leaving unresolved territorial claims. Civilians caught in the conflict face displacement and danger, and the shared cultural heritage of the Khmer Empire region complicates nationalist tensions.