Thailand-Cambodia border dispute
The Thai Army stated its intention to retaliate against any violations of the ceasefire agreement with Cambodia on May 2, 2026, amid ongoing tension over canal dredging and temple restoration. As of May 2, 2026, the truce remains volatile, with Cambodia urging Thailand to resume border demarcation talks for long-term peace. Cambodia formally protested alleged unlawful activities by Thai armed forces, including land-clearing and barbed wire deployment in disputed Preah Vihear province, on April 5, 2026, while Thailand maintained its actions were defensive. The conflict has led to a significant influx of returning migrant workers into Cambodia, causing unemployment and a drop in remittances, and the Preah Vihear temple has sustained significant damage, with over 36,500 people displaced from clashes that began in mid-2025.
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May 2026 — 1 developments
The Thai Army has stated its intention to retaliate against any violations of the ceasefire agreement with Cambodia.
The Thai Army has stated its intention to retaliate against any violations of the ceasefire agreement with Cambodia. This declaration comes amid ongoing tension and disputes over canal dredging and temple restoration, underscoring the persistent volatility of the truce.
April 2026 — 5 developments
Cambodia has urged Thailand to resume border demarcation talks, emphasizing the need for sincerity and cooperation for long-term peace.
Cambodia has urged Thailand to resume border demarcation talks, emphasizing the need for sincerity and cooperation for long-term peace. A UN report has highlighted the severe economic impact of the 2025 border conflict, warning of mass displacement and economic collapse that could undo years of developmental gains.
Cambodia has urged Thailand to resume border talks, but Thailand's foreign minister stated they are not yet ready due to ongoing government transition processes.
Cambodia has urged Thailand to resume border talks, but Thailand's foreign minister stated they are not yet ready due to ongoing government transition processes. Meanwhile, two flashpoint areas along the border, Ta Kwai and Hill 350, have been reopened to visitors.
Cambodia has formally protested alleged unlawful activities by Thai armed forces in disputed Preah V…
Cambodia has formally protested alleged unlawful activities by Thai armed forces in disputed Preah Vihear province, including land-clearing and barbed wire deployment, asserting these actions violate its sovereignty and international treaties. The Royal Thai Armed Forces clarified that redeployments of armored personnel carriers are defensive measures for area control and troop safety, reportedly triggered by Cambodian soldiers approaching Thai defenses.
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has led to a significant influx of returning migrant workers into Cambodia, causing unemployment and a drop in remittances.
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has led to a significant influx of returning migrant workers into Cambodia, causing unemployment and a drop in remittances. Thailand has maintained its stance on not allowing new Cambodian workers and has not reopened land border crossings, further impacting Cambodia's labor market.
The Cambodian government is fast-tracking compensation for families of soldiers killed in recent bor…
The Cambodian government is fast-tracking compensation for families of soldiers killed in recent border clashes with Thailand, with a proposal for 10 million baht awaiting cabinet approval. Cambodia has also protested alleged "unlawful" construction by Thai forces in border areas, citing violations of international rulings and Cambodian sovereignty.
March 2026 — 8 developments
The Royal Thai Navy announced on March 29, 2026, the placement of containers and reinforced barriers…
The Royal Thai Navy announced on March 29, 2026, the placement of containers and reinforced barriers along the Cambodian border, describing the move as a self-defense measure against provocations and the dismantling of original barriers. This action aligns with a December 2025 Joint Statement regarding troop deployment lines.
The Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has sustained significant damage from recent border clashes, with Cambodian officials fearing structural collapse.
The Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has sustained significant damage from recent border clashes, with Cambodian officials fearing structural collapse. The site is currently closed to tourism due to unstable walls and the risk of unexploded ordnance. As of March 2026, over 36,500 people remain displaced from clashes that began in mid-2025.
The ASEAN Observer Team has been reinforced with additional military officers from Singapore and Mal…
The ASEAN Observer Team has been reinforced with additional military officers from Singapore and Malaysia to enhance regional oversight of the ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. Meanwhile, Cambodia has dismissed claims by a Thai Army intelligence chief regarding potential future conflict and arms purchases as "incorrect and baseless," reaffirming its commitment to peaceful resolution.
A Thai marine commander accused Cambodian forces of repeated provocations along the Trat frontier in…
A Thai marine commander accused Cambodian forces of repeated provocations along the Trat frontier in the past week, stating that gunfire incidents amounted to breaches of the December ceasefire. Thailand has also requested postponements of Joint Boundary Commission meetings, citing internal procedures for appointing a new Thai JBC composition.
The Thai Army chief has warned of a potential "third conflict" along the Thai-Cambodian border, citi…
The Thai Army chief has warned of a potential "third conflict" along the Thai-Cambodian border, citing Cambodia's upcoming 2027 elections and alleged arms purchases as potential triggers. The Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has also suffered significant damage from recent border clashes, raising concerns about its structural integrity.
Cambodia has lodged formal protests against Thailand for alleged border encroachments, citing the er…
Cambodia has lodged formal protests against Thailand for alleged border encroachments, citing the erection of Thai flags, construction of infrastructure, and land clearing in areas Cambodia claims as its sovereign territory. These actions follow previous fighting in July and December 2025 and persist despite a ceasefire agreement reached in December 2025.
Cambodia has formally protested alleged Thai military encroachments, including road construction and the placement of Buddhist statues in disputed zones near Preah Vihear Temple.
Cambodia has formally protested alleged Thai military encroachments, including road construction and the placement of Buddhist statues in disputed zones near Preah Vihear Temple. Thailand has announced plans to begin border fencing in April 2026 along a 1.31-kilometer stretch in Chanthaburi province, an initiative that has received approval from the Cambodian government.
Renewed border clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces in December 2025 resulted in significant ca…
Renewed border clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces in December 2025 resulted in significant casualties, with at least 21 people killed in Thailand and 17 in Cambodia, and around 800,000 displaced. The conflict involved air strikes and drone attacks, with Thailand stating its aim was to cripple Cambodia's military capacity. The Stormatuk Bridge was bombed by the Thai Air Force.
February 2026 — 23 developments
Thailand's military reported exchanging fire with Cambodian forces on February 24, 2026, accusing Cambodia of violating a December truce.
Thailand's military reported exchanging fire with Cambodian forces on February 24, 2026, accusing Cambodia of violating a December truce. Cambodia denied using weapons but presented evidence of alleged Thai territorial occupation since the ceasefire, claiming Thai forces installed barbed wire and shipping containers inside Cambodian territory. The Philippines, as ASEAN Chair, confirmed consultations aimed at sustaining peace and strengthening border monitoring mechanisms.
Thailand's army reported on February 24, 2026, that it exchanged fire with Cambodian forces, accusing Cambodia of violating the December truce.
Thailand's army reported on February 24, 2026, that it exchanged fire with Cambodian forces, accusing Cambodia of violating the December truce. Cambodian officials also stated on February 24, 2026, that Thai forces have occupied nearly 800 hectares of Cambodian territory since the ceasefire, preventing residents from returning.
The Thai Army has rejected a report alleging violations of international law and excessive force in the Thai-Cambodian border situation.
The Thai Army has rejected a report alleging violations of international law and excessive force in the Thai-Cambodian border situation. The Army spokesperson stated that the report lacked clear sources and contained distorted information, relying solely on claims from the Cambodian side.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces are illegally occupying Cambodian territory and that Cambodia will not recognize any border changes made by force.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces are illegally occupying Cambodian territory and that Cambodia will not recognize any border changes made by force. He noted that Thai troops are occupying Cambodian land in multiple locations beyond unilaterally claimed boundary lines, despite a ceasefire that took effect on December 27, 2025.
Thailand has refuted Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet's accusations of occupying Cambodian territory.
Thailand has refuted Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet's accusations of occupying Cambodian territory. The Royal Thai Army clarified that the approximately 80,000 Cambodians mentioned are illegal encroachers on Thai soil, not displaced persons. Thailand asserts that its border measures are temporary security actions consistent with bilateral ceasefire agreements and that the disputed land is Thai territory.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces are occupying Cambodian territory despite a peace accord brokered after last year's fighting.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces are occupying Cambodian territory despite a peace accord brokered after last year's fighting. He urged Thailand to permit a joint boundary commission to address their disputed border, noting that over 74,000 Cambodians remain displaced due to Thai military incursions and closed infrastructure.
Cambodia is implementing measures to stabilize its economy, which has been significantly affected by the border conflict with Thailand.
Cambodia is implementing measures to stabilize its economy, which has been significantly affected by the border conflict with Thailand. The closure of border crossings has disrupted trade and led to the return of numerous migrant workers. Prime Minister Hun Manet is pursuing strategies to diversify markets and attract new investments to lessen Cambodia's dependence on Thailand.
Cambodia's Ambassador to France has officially informed the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) about critical territorial violations by Thai military forces.
Cambodia's Ambassador to France has officially informed the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) about critical territorial violations by Thai military forces. This alert highlights that the situation along the border remains tense and serious, despite the existing ceasefire agreement.
Thousands of displaced Cambodians remain hopeful of returning home six weeks after a ceasefire ended…
Thousands of displaced Cambodians remain hopeful of returning home six weeks after a ceasefire ended border fighting, despite a nationalist election victory in Thailand favoring a fortified frontier. Thai forces had taken control of several square kilometers of disputed land during previous fighting. The fragile ceasefire is being tested by a landmine explosion that wounded three Thai soldiers near the Cambodian border.
Japan, Cambodia, and the World Food Programme have launched a $1.
Japan, Cambodia, and the World Food Programme have launched a $1.5 million recovery project for families affected by the border conflict. Additionally, a meeting between the foreign ministers and heads of military departments from China, Cambodia, and Thailand on December 28-29, 2025, resulted in a five-point consensus on consolidating the ceasefire and restoring relations.
Three Thai soldiers were injured on February 11, 2026, when a landmine exploded near the Cambodian border.
Three Thai soldiers were injured on February 11, 2026, when a landmine exploded near the Cambodian border. This incident raises concerns about the stability of the existing ceasefire between the two nations. The soldiers were reportedly surveying the border area at the time of the detonation.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged national unity amid ongoing tensions with Thailand, as over 82,000 civilians remain displaced due to border clashes.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged national unity amid ongoing tensions with Thailand, as over 82,000 civilians remain displaced due to border clashes. Despite a ceasefire in effect since December 27, 2025, Cambodia is monitoring "dishonest activities" by Thailand, and essential public services remain suspended in affected areas.
Cambodian security officials have dismissed Thai media reports of a military build-up and a potentia…
Cambodian security officials have dismissed Thai media reports of a military build-up and a potential 'third round' of fighting, reaffirming their commitment to the existing ceasefire. Meanwhile, the Thai Army stated it is complying with de-escalation measures and working to clear landmines. Displaced civilians are returning to villages in Sra Em commune, but many find their homes ruined and unexploded ordnance scattered, indicating ongoing challenges despite the ceasefire.
Thai security officials are warning of a potential "third round" of border conflict with Cambodia, b…
Thai security officials are warning of a potential "third round" of border conflict with Cambodia, based on intelligence indicating a significant military build-up by Cambodia and the procurement of advanced anti-aircraft weaponry. This development suggests heightened tensions and a potential escalation of hostilities along the border.
Cambodia has lodged a protest against alleged illegal activities by the Thai military in disputed territory, citing roadblocks and road construction.
Cambodia has lodged a protest against alleged illegal activities by the Thai military in disputed territory, citing roadblocks and road construction. The Royal Thai Navy has placed shipping containers along the border in Trat province as a measure to reduce tension following an incident where barbed-wire fences were cut. Meanwhile, over 86,000 displaced people remain unable to return home due to the conflict, with essential public services, schools, and health facilities still suspended.
A ceasefire was established on December 27, 2025, following intensified armed conflict along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
A ceasefire was established on December 27, 2025, following intensified armed conflict along the Thailand-Cambodia border. While approximately 85% of the 640,000 people displaced in December 2025 have returned home, nearly 98,000 individuals remain displaced as of February 2026, highlighting ongoing humanitarian needs.
Thai troops have advanced approximately 420 meters into Cambodian territory at the O'Smach International Border Checkpoint, according to provincial authorities.
Thai troops have advanced approximately 420 meters into Cambodian territory at the O'Smach International Border Checkpoint, according to provincial authorities. Thai national flags were raised on the Cambodian side of the agreed checkpoint, which authorities described as blatant aggression.
Cambodia has requested historical documents from France to aid in resolving the long-standing border dispute with Thailand.
Cambodia has requested historical documents from France to aid in resolving the long-standing border dispute with Thailand. Additionally, the Cambodian government has pledged to defend its borders through international law and peaceful negotiations while supporting those displaced by the conflict.
Cambodian officials have stated that during the 2025 border conflict, Thai forces illegally occupied…
Cambodian officials have stated that during the 2025 border conflict, Thai forces illegally occupied 14 areas on Cambodian territory, especially in disputed regions near the Preah Vihear Temple. Troop presence was reported near the Boeung Trakuon border crossing.
Thailand's Foreign Minister urged Cambodia to avoid provocative acts following an incident on January 30, 2026, where Cambodian troops triggered a flare.
Thailand's Foreign Minister urged Cambodia to avoid provocative acts following an incident on January 30, 2026, where Cambodian troops triggered a flare. This call aims to prevent further escalation of border tensions.
The Thai Air Force spokesperson, Air Marshal Jakkrit Thamvichai, confirmed that the Air Force remain…
The Thai Air Force spokesperson, Air Marshal Jakkrit Thamvichai, confirmed that the Air Force remains on standby to protect Thailand's sovereignty along the border due to ongoing provocations and ceasefire violations by Cambodia.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangkaew stated that Thailand is prepared to defend its sovereignty i…
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangkaew stated that Thailand is prepared to defend its sovereignty if Cambodia intentionally fires across the border, while also emphasizing efforts for a sustainable ceasefire and ongoing local-level discussions.
Cambodia reported that Thailand has not responded to requests to resume joint border survey work or confirm a meeting date for the Cambodian-Thai Joint Boundary Commission.
Cambodia reported that Thailand has not responded to requests to resume joint border survey work or confirm a meeting date for the Cambodian-Thai Joint Boundary Commission. Phnom Penh also accused Thai military forces of clearing and destroying homes belonging to Cambodian citizens.
January 2026 — 8 developments
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited approximately 2,500 refugees in Preah Vihear province who remain displaced due to the December border conflict.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited approximately 2,500 refugees in Preah Vihear province who remain displaced due to the December border conflict. The government is considering providing improved temporary shelters or relocating them closer to their homes.
Following the December 27, 2025 ceasefire, Thailand and Cambodia convened two meetings of the Region…
Following the December 27, 2025 ceasefire, Thailand and Cambodia convened two meetings of the Regional Border Committee (RBC) in January 2026, with the first held on January 15, indicating a gradual resumption of bilateral mechanisms.
Talks between Thai and Cambodian armies regarding border management ended in deadlock on January 29, 2026, with no agreement signed.
Talks between Thai and Cambodian armies regarding border management ended in deadlock on January 29, 2026, with no agreement signed. Additionally, Cambodia is increasingly framing the border standoff in terms of international humanitarian law, reporting that over 530,000 displaced civilians have returned home.
One month after the ceasefire took effect on December 27, 2025, Cambodia's Royal Government reaffirm…
One month after the ceasefire took effect on December 27, 2025, Cambodia's Royal Government reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution and territorial integrity, with Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bona highlighting ongoing humanitarian and diplomatic efforts.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved parliament amidst the border clashes, while the Cambodian Ministry of Health warned of a serious public health threat.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved parliament amidst the border clashes, while the Cambodian Ministry of Health warned of a serious public health threat. A former Cambodian diplomat called for French intervention, and 82% of displaced Cambodians have returned home as the ceasefire holds.
A mortar strike on January 6 wounded a Thai soldier, an incident Cambodia attributed to an operational error.
A mortar strike on January 6 wounded a Thai soldier, an incident Cambodia attributed to an operational error. In late December 2025, Thai forces reportedly demolished a Lord Vishnu statue at An Ses and installed a Buddha statue, while renewed conflict led to 490,000 displacements with 100,000 remaining in safety centers.
Cambodia has accused Thailand of violating a ceasefire agreement between January 12-22, 2026, with Thailand asserting its commitment to a December 27, 2025 joint statement.
Cambodia has accused Thailand of violating a ceasefire agreement between January 12-22, 2026, with Thailand asserting its commitment to a December 27, 2025 joint statement. The situation along the border has sharply deteriorated, according to Cambodia's Senate First Vice-President, citing repeated ceasefire violations. Diplomatic representatives from both nations also engaged in arguments at a UN Security Council meeting regarding their ongoing border dispute.
By December 25, 2025, the death toll from the border clashes reached 96, including specific military and civilian casualties for both sides.
By December 25, 2025, the death toll from the border clashes reached 96, including specific military and civilian casualties for both sides. As of January 1, 2026, approximately 409,000 people remained displaced, highlighting persisting humanitarian needs.
December 2025 — 11 developments
On December 8, 2025, the UN Secretary-General expressed deep concern over renewed armed clashes, followed by Thailand launching air strikes on December 9.
On December 8, 2025, the UN Secretary-General expressed deep concern over renewed armed clashes, followed by Thailand launching air strikes on December 9. Thailand later released 18 Cambodian prisoners of war on December 31, 2025.
Following the resumption of hostilities in December, Thai forces reportedly seized several towns and strategic hills in the disputed border area.
Following the resumption of hostilities in December, Thai forces reportedly seized several towns and strategic hills in the disputed border area.
On December 29, 2025, Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the recent 16-point ceasefire agreement…
On December 29, 2025, Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the recent 16-point ceasefire agreement by flying over 250 UAVs into Thai airspace, prompting Thailand to reconsider the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers, with China mediating. This development follows the reported destruction of a Lord Shiva statue on December 25, which drew international condemnation, and a December 18 statement from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights expressing alarm over escalating hostilities and reports of cultural sites being struck.
Thailand and Cambodia have signed a new ceasefire agreement to end weeks of fighting along their border over competing territorial claims.
Thailand and Cambodia have signed a new ceasefire agreement to end weeks of fighting along their border over competing territorial claims. The agreement, which took effect on December 27, 2025, calls for a halt in military movements and airspace violations. Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha and Thai Defense Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit signed the deal, which also includes the repatriation of 18 Cambodian soldiers held as prisoners.
Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate ceasefire after weeks of intense border clashes that resulted in dozens of deaths.
Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate ceasefire after weeks of intense border clashes that resulted in dozens of deaths. The agreement took effect on Saturday, December 27, 2025. Additionally, Cambodia has reported significant damage to the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear temple due to Thai army shelling during the recent fighting.
Thailand and Cambodia sign a new immediate ceasefire agreement to end weeks of deadly border clashes that have killed over 100 people and displaced more than half a million.
Thailand and Cambodia sign a new immediate ceasefire agreement to end weeks of deadly border clashes that have killed over 100 people and displaced more than half a million.
Human Rights Watch urged both nations to protect civilians amidst clashes since December 8, 2025, no…
Human Rights Watch urged both nations to protect civilians amidst clashes since December 8, 2025, noting civilian casualties, displacement, and the use of explosive weapons, with Cambodia accusing Thailand of using cluster munitions. Thailand also accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire by flying over 250 drones across the border.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights warned that civilians were at risk due to intensifying air…
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights warned that civilians were at risk due to intensifying air strikes and heavy artillery, with Cambodia reporting 18 civilian fatalities since December 7.
On December 14, 2025, Cambodian forces allegedly fired rockets into civilian areas in Thailand, caus…
On December 14, 2025, Cambodian forces allegedly fired rockets into civilian areas in Thailand, causing casualties and leading Thailand to condemn the actions as violations of sovereignty. Additionally, on December 21, 2025, a Thai marine lost a leg to newly planted landmines, prompting Thailand to protest Cambodia's use of anti-personnel landmines and pursue action through international conventions.
Deadly fighting escalated along the Cambodia-Thailand border in December 2025, resulting in at least…
Deadly fighting escalated along the Cambodia-Thailand border in December 2025, resulting in at least 20 deaths, nearly 200 injuries, and forcing over half a million people to flee their homes.
The ceasefire is broken as Thailand launches air strikes along the border, accusing Cambodia of breaching the agreement, leading to renewed heavy fighting and further displacements.
The ceasefire is broken as Thailand launches air strikes along the border, accusing Cambodia of breaching the agreement, leading to renewed heavy fighting and further displacements.
November 2025 — 1 developments
Thailand suspended a US-brokered peace agreement on November 10, 2025, after a landmine blast injured soldiers.
Thailand suspended a US-brokered peace agreement on November 10, 2025, after a landmine blast injured soldiers. Hostilities resumed on December 7 with skirmishes and air strikes, leading Cambodia to close its borders on December 13 due to ongoing fighting and reported casualties.
July 2025 — 2 developments
Thailand and Cambodia agree to an unconditional ceasefire after days of intense fighting that killed dozens and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Thailand and Cambodia agree to an unconditional ceasefire after days of intense fighting that killed dozens and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Open armed conflict breaks out along the border, with both sides accusing each other of initiating hostilities.
Open armed conflict breaks out along the border, with both sides accusing each other of initiating hostilities. Thailand deploys F-16 fighter jets, and fighting spreads across multiple locations.
May 2025 — 1 developments
A skirmish near the Preah Vihear temple leaves one Cambodian soldier dead, marking the first deadly clash since 2011 and triggering months of heightened tension and retaliation.
A skirmish near the Preah Vihear temple leaves one Cambodian soldier dead, marking the first deadly clash since 2011 and triggering months of heightened tension and retaliation.
November 2013 — 1 developments
The ICJ issues a clarification of its 1962 ruling, stating that Cambodia has sovereignty over the en…
The ICJ issues a clarification of its 1962 ruling, stating that Cambodia has sovereignty over the entire promontory of Preah Vihear and ordering Thailand to withdraw its forces from the disputed area.
February 2011 — 1 developments
Heavy fighting erupts near the Preah Vihear temple, lasting several days and resulting in casualties on both sides.
Heavy fighting erupts near the Preah Vihear temple, lasting several days and resulting in casualties on both sides. Cambodia accuses Thailand of damaging the temple.
July 2008 — 1 developments
UNESCO lists Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage Site for Cambodia, reigniting the border dispute and leading to military buildups and clashes.
UNESCO lists Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage Site for Cambodia, reigniting the border dispute and leading to military buildups and clashes.
June 1962 — 1 developments
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules that the Preah Vihear temple is situated in Cambodian territory, obliging Thailand to withdraw its forces.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules that the Preah Vihear temple is situated in Cambodian territory, obliging Thailand to withdraw its forces.
October 1959 — 1 developments
Cambodia files a suit with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the ownership of the P…
Cambodia files a suit with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the ownership of the Preah Vihear temple, which Thailand had reoccupied in 1954 after Cambodia's independence.