Cambodia-Thailand Border Tensions Escalate With Military Clash, Economic Measures

Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have escalated following a deadly armed skirmish in late May along their disputed border, leading to a cycle of retaliatory measures including border restrictions, bans on imports, and cultural boycotts by both countries. Cambodia has organized mass protests in support of its government and military, while also taking the dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), asserting its claims based on colonial-era maps. Thailand refuses ICJ jurisdiction, advocating for bilateral negotiations instead and has tightened border controls, including limiting crossings and threatening to cut electricity supplies to Cambodia. Recent talks in Phnom Penh yielded little progress, with Cambodia accusing Thailand of violating agreements by increasing military activities near contested areas. Cambodia’s defense ministry reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful resolution through international law but warned it would defend its sovereignty against any aggression. Both nations continue to grapple with an 800-kilometer contested frontier, with another meeting scheduled in September to seek further dialogue.