Tensions rise again between Thailand and Cambodia over long-standing border disputes. Here’s the full story, history, and current updates in 2025.
📰 Thailand vs Cambodia Border Conflict: Full Story and 2025 Update
Are Thailand and Cambodia going to war again?
Recent headlines and social media trends have reignited global interest in the Thailand–Cambodia border dispute, one of Southeast Asia’s most complex conflicts.
Here’s a complete but easy-to-understand guide covering the history, key locations, and latest developments of this decades-long dispute.
📍Where is the Thailand–Cambodia Conflict Happening?
The conflict mostly centers around the Preah Vihear Temple, a historic Khmer temple located on a mountaintop near the Thai-Cambodian border. While Cambodia owns the temple, Thailand claims part of the surrounding land.
The disputed area includes:
- Preah Vihear Temple
- Dangrek Mountain range
- Small villages along the border
🕰️ A Quick Look at the History
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1907 | French (colonial rulers of Cambodia) draw the map placing the temple inside Cambodia. |
| 1962 | International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules that Cambodia owns the temple, but doesn’t clarify the border. |
| 2008–2011 | Military clashes occur; dozens killed, thousands displaced. |
| 2013 | ICJ rules Cambodia also has sovereignty over surrounding land. |
| 2024–2025 | Tensions rise again due to political statements and troop movements. |
🔥 Why Is It Trending in 2025?
In July 2025, new viral videos surfaced allegedly showing Thai soldiers near Cambodian territory, sparking public anger and nationalist hashtags in both countries.
While both governments deny military escalation, nationalist groups and political opposition figures are using the issue to stir support ahead of local elections.
🚨 Social Media Trend:
“#ThailandVsCambodia” and “#PreahVihear” are trending on TikTok and Facebook in Cambodia and Thailand.
🕊️ What Are Both Countries Saying?
🇹🇭 Thailand’s Position:
- Thailand respects the 1962 ICJ ruling.
- Claims soldiers are only doing routine patrols near Thai territory.
🇰🇭 Cambodia’s Position:
- Accuses Thailand of provocative border activity.
- Calls for international observers and support from ASEAN.
🤝 Will There Be a War?
Highly unlikely. While tension exists, both governments are under pressure to avoid armed conflict due to:
- Trade ties
- Tourism economies
- ASEAN diplomatic rules
Most analysts say this is more about political noise and nationalism, not a real war.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🔸 Did Thailand and Cambodia go to war?
Yes, brief clashes happened between 2008 and 2011, especially near the Preah Vihear Temple.
🔸 Who owns Preah Vihear Temple?
The International Court of Justice ruled in 1962 that Cambodia owns it.
🔸 Is the area safe for tourists?
Yes, but it’s best to avoid the immediate border zone near Preah Vihear for now.
🔸 What sparked the 2025 tension?
Leaked footage and political statements from both sides have caused social media outrage.
🗞️ Latest Update (as of July 2025)
- Cambodian Prime Minister has requested a UN review of the border line.
- Thai officials say they will deploy drones for surveillance only.
- ASEAN has offered to mediate — again.
Stay tuned for updates as this develops.
🧭 Final Thoughts
The Thailand–Cambodia conflict is not just about a temple—it’s about history, nationalism, and politics. While war is unlikely, this is a reminder of how fragile peace can be when national pride is involved.
