Cambodia Appeals International Court Over Thailand Border Dispute Amid Troop Mobilization

Cambodia has formally requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to resolve a long-standing border dispute with Thailand following a recent escalation that led to a Cambodian soldier's death and troop mobilizations on both sides. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia's preference for a peaceful resolution through international law, submitting a case involving four contested border areas, including Tamone Thom, Tamone Touch, Ta Krabey, and Mom Bei. Thailand, however, has not recognized the ICJ's jurisdiction over the matter and prefers bilateral negotiations, continuing talks through the Joint Boundary Commission amid hopes to ease tensions. The border dispute, spanning an 820-km frontier with undemarcated sections, has a history of military skirmishes and nationalist tensions, with Cambodia previously seeking successful ICJ rulings regarding the Preah Vihear temple area. Despite diplomatic pledges to manage the conflict peacefully, both nations have taken retaliatory economic measures, including Cambodia ceasing purchases of Thai electricity and internet services. The ongoing talks and Cambodia's appeal to the ICJ reflect the complexity and high stakes of the dispute, as both countries seek a sustainable resolution to prevent further armed clashes.