Thailand-Cambodia border dispute
Thailand expressed concerns to China on July 27, 2026, regarding Cambodia's delivery of 39 Chinese T-59D battle tanks, fearing destabilization of the ceasefire, though China reaffirmed neutrality, stating the equipment was part of a 2016 agreement. As of July 27, 2026, Thailand's Foreign Minister stated on July 20 that direct bilateral talks on land borders are "out of the question" due to Cambodia's approach to maritime disputes, a claim Cambodia rejects. China has offered to mediate the ongoing border dispute, with Chinese President Xi Jinping volunteering to help resolve the issues during a meeting in Shanghai on July 17. Cambodia has lodged fresh diplomatic protests against Thailand for alleged military engineering works and incursions between July 5 and 9, which Thailand denies, while Cambodia urges resumption of Joint Boundary Commission work.
Timeline
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July 2026 — 8 developments
Thailand raises concerns with China over Cambodian tank delivery amid border dispute
Thailand has expressed concerns to China over Cambodia's delivery of 39 Chinese T-59D battle tanks, fearing it could destabilize the ceasefire. China reaffirmed its neutrality, stating the equipment was delivered under a 2016 agreement and not during current clashes.
Thailand says direct land border talks with Cambodia are out of the question
Thailand's Foreign Minister stated on July 20, 2026, that direct bilateral talks on land borders are "out of the question" due to Cambodia's approach to maritime disputes, a claim Cambodia rejects. This statement follows China's offer to mediate peace talks between the two nations.
China Offers to Mediate Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute During Shanghai Meeting
China has offered to mediate the ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia during a meeting in Shanghai. Chinese President Xi Jinping volunteered to help resolve the border issues, while clarifying that recent tank deliveries from China to Cambodia were part of an old order.
China offers to mediate Cambodia-Thailand border dispute as leaders meet in Shanghai
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Shanghai. China has expressed its readiness to mediate the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, a role Thailand has stated it is open to.
Cambodia and Thailand Leaders to Meet in China Amid Border Tensions
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul are scheduled to meet with Chinese leaders in Shanghai on July 17, 2026, during the World AI Conference 2026. This meeting occurs as Cambodia has lodged new protests against Thailand for alleged military engineering works within its territory, which Phnom Penh claims violate ceasefire commitments.
Cambodia Protests Thai Border Incursions, APF Backs Sovereignty
Cambodia has lodged a fresh diplomatic protest against Thailand, accusing its armed forces of carrying out new military engineering works and incursions between July 5th and 9th, 2026. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie adopted a resolution on July 11, 2026, upholding Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Thailand denies the allegations.
Cambodia urges Thailand to resume border demarcation amid ongoing tensions
Cambodia's Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs briefed diplomats on July 6, 2026, urging Thailand to resume survey and demarcation work by the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) for de-escalation and lasting peace. Despite a ceasefire in effect since December 2025, the Thai military has reportedly continued to install barriers and construct infrastructure in occupied territories, prompting strong objections from Cambodia.
Thailand Rejects Cambodia's Temple Claim, Cambodia Reaffirms Peaceful Resolution
Thailand rejected Cambodia's unilateral claim of sovereignty over the Prasat Khana temple area in June 2026, insisting the dispute be resolved through international law and bilateral mechanisms. Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful resolution through diplomatic and legal channels in July 2026. These developments follow a December 2025 China-mediated ceasefire agreement.
June 2026 — 9 developments
Cambodia and China Establish Security Partnership Amid Border Tensions
Cambodia and China have agreed to establish a comprehensive security partnership following Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen's visit to Beijing. Concurrently, a Cambodian border official alleged that the Thai military is attempting to create a new map to legitimize occupied territories, asserting that historical documents place these areas within Cambodia's sovereignty.
Thailand: China understands our position on Cambodia border tensions
Thai Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated on June 27, 2026, that China understands Thailand's position on the ongoing tensions with Cambodia and will not take sides. He expressed confidence that China's interests in Cambodia should not impact the bilateral situation.
Cambodia protests Thai border incursions, tensions rise despite ceasefire
Cambodia has formally protested alleged Thai border incursions and survey activities in June 2026, accusing Thailand of violating bilateral frameworks, which Thailand denied. This development strains the December 2025 ceasefire agreement brokered by China. In parallel, Thailand has accepted Cambodia's request for compulsory conciliation regarding a maritime boundary dispute in the Gulf of Thailand.
Vietnam Supports Ceasefire in Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute; China Highlights Mediation Role
Vietnam reiterated its support for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the Cambodia-Thailand border issue on June 24, 2026. Additionally, a White Paper released by China on June 17, 2026, highlighted its constructive role in mediating the border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand.
Thailand Responds to Cambodia's Maritime Dispute Conciliation, Diplomatic Visit Planned
Thailand has submitted its response to Cambodia's notification of conciliation concerning a maritime boundary dispute under UNCLOS, appointing representatives for the proceedings. Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen is also scheduled to visit China from June 25th to 27th, 2026, to deepen ties.
Cambodia Pursues International Arbitration for Maritime Border Dispute
Cambodia opted for international arbitration regarding maritime border disputes in May 2026, shifting the conflict from solely bilateral diplomacy. This followed trilateral talks in China in late December 2025, where Thailand and Cambodia met with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi to consolidate a ceasefire and rebuild trust after weeks of intense border fighting. The agreement included the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers and 16 de-escalation measures.
Thailand Responds to Cambodia's Maritime Dispute Conciliation, Appoints Conciliators
Thailand submitted its response to Cambodia's initiation of compulsory conciliation proceedings under UNCLOS concerning a maritime boundary dispute, appointing conciliators from South Africa and Germany. Cambodia is urging Thailand to resume joint land border survey and demarcation work.
Cambodia Initiates UNCLOS Conciliation Proceedings Against Thailand Over Maritime Dispute
Cambodia has initiated compulsory conciliation proceedings under UNCLOS concerning a maritime dispute with Thailand, a move Thailand has agreed to join. This action follows ongoing diplomatic efforts and mediation by China aimed at resolving border disputes and maintaining ceasefires.
Cambodia PM: Ceasefire with Thailand Fragile; China Reportedly Supplied Tanks
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated in early June 2026 that the ceasefire with Thailand remains fragile and requires urgent implementation of the December 2025 joint statement. China has been mediating discussions and reportedly supplied battle tanks to Cambodia in June 2026, a development Thailand is monitoring. Following late 2025 clashes and a ceasefire agreement, many displaced individuals have returned, but concerns about the peace's stability and territorial disputes persist.
May 2026 — 4 developments
Cambodia, Thailand Exchange Views on Border Dispute at UN Security Council Debate
Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn emphasized territorial integrity and peaceful dispute settlement at a UN Security Council debate on May 27, 2026. His Thai counterpart, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, responded that trust and good faith are essential for lasting peace and that Thailand is committed to the ceasefire.
Cambodia Pushes for UN Conciliation in Border Dispute with Thailand Amidst Talks
Cambodia insisted on compulsory UN conciliation for its border dispute with Thailand during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Thai diplomats on May 26, 2026, while Thailand favored bilateral negotiations. China reiterated its support for dialogue and consultation to resolve disputes peacefully.
ASEAN observers inspect Cambodia-Thailand border areas amid intensified diplomatic talks
ASEAN observers are inspecting disputed areas along the Cambodia-Thailand border as diplomatic engagement intensifies to ease tensions following recent gunfire incidents. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence reaffirmed its commitment to implementing agreements for long-term peace, with foreign ministers from both nations expected to hold talks soon.
Cambodia Welcomes Thailand's Initiative for Bilateral Border Talks Amidst Dispute
Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister Tea Seiha welcomed Thailand's initiative to hold bilateral border meetings through existing mechanisms such as the General Border Committee (GBC). He expressed hope that these meetings would strengthen mutual trust, reduce tensions, and resolve issues through dialogue. This follows Thailand's move to revoke earlier MOUs concerning border and maritime disputes.
April 2026 — 9 developments
China mediates Thailand-Cambodia border dispute with dialogue and support from EU, Spain
China is actively mediating peace efforts between Thailand and Cambodia, involving high-level meetings and Track II dialogues. Spain and the European Union have also expressed support for a peaceful resolution grounded in international law.
China Facilitates Track II Dialogue, Thailand Considers Scrapping Maritime Deal with Cambodia
China has facilitated a Track II dialogue involving non-governmental experts and think tanks to address the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict. Concurrently, Thailand is considering abolishing a 2001 maritime Memorandum of Understanding with Cambodia, suggesting negotiations can now occur under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
China's Wang Yi visits Cambodia and Thailand to mediate border dispute
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is visiting Cambodia and Thailand to strengthen ties and mediate the ongoing border dispute. The visit includes a '2+2' strategic dialogue between China and Cambodia, involving their foreign and defense ministers. Analysts consider this visit crucial for resolving the dispute and implementing previous agreements like the Fuxian Consensus.
Cambodia shifts border dispute strategy to bilateral talks with Thailand
Cambodia is shifting its border dispute resolution strategy from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to bilateral negotiations with Thailand, as emphasized by Prime Minister Hun Manet. This move aims to expedite the demarcation process following the December 2025 ceasefire. While Cambodia is eager to resume survey and demarcation work, Thailand has indicated that internal procedures must be completed before participating in Joint Border Committee meetings.
Thai Officials Eye Informal Talks on Border Committee During ASEAN Summit
Thai officials indicated that discussions on resuming Joint Border Committee (JBC) meetings might occur informally during the ASEAN summit in early May 2026. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet reiterated his country's commitment to bilateral negotiations and peaceful resolution of border disputes with Thailand, aligning with new Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's policy. Both nations agreed to maintain current troop positions to prevent accidental clashes while technical teams conduct surveys.
Cambodia urges Thailand to resume border dispute negotiations
Cambodia has urged Thailand to resume negotiations to address their long-standing border dispute, emphasizing the importance of dialogue for peace and security. Thailand has stated it is not yet in a position to resume talks due to its ongoing government formation processes.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urges Thailand to resume joint border demarcation
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged Thailand to resume joint border demarcation work, prioritizing civilian areas. This call follows trilateral talks in China where Thailand and Cambodia agreed to solidify a ceasefire and rebuild mutual trust, with China emphasizing the importance of the hard-won peace. The discussions also covered combating transnational crimes and included China's pledge of humanitarian aid for Cambodia.
Thailand, Cambodia, and China Foreign Ministers Meet on De-escalation and Border Safety
The foreign ministers of Thailand, Cambodia, and China met in China on December 29, 2025, to discuss de-escalation and border safety measures following a new ceasefire agreement. Additionally, ASEAN observers from Singapore and Malaysia have joined to strengthen regional oversight of the ceasefire and related agreements.
China hosts 'Track II dialogue' on peace process, notes Cambodian soldier return
Scholars from China, Cambodia, and Thailand convened in Beijing for a 'Track II dialogue' to advance a peace process under the 'Fuxian consensus'. China, mediating the dispute, expressed satisfaction with the continued ceasefire and the return of 18 Cambodian soldiers following the December 2025 agreement.
February 2026 — 2 developments
Cambodian PM Hun Manet Calls for De-escalation in Border Disputes with Thailand
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for de-escalation and peaceful coexistence amid ongoing border disputes with Thailand, emphasizing his government's support for a peaceful settlement. Cambodia has also highlighted intensified diplomatic efforts to safeguard national interests and seek a peaceful resolution, with Prime Minister Hun Manet returning from diplomatic missions to the US and Europe.
Thai Military Reports Border Clash with Cambodia, Accuses Cambodia of Ceasefire Violation
Thailand's military reported an exchange of fire with Cambodian forces along their shared border on February 24, 2026, accusing Cambodia of violating a December ceasefire. Cambodia has denied using any weapons, calling the allegations false and intended to provoke tension.
January 2026 — 20 developments
Thai PM Anutin confirms border tensions with Cambodia resolved, no continuous gunfire reported
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that border tensions with Cambodia have been resolved, with no continuous gunfire reported. He stated that frontline commanders are expected to resolve incidents according to the ceasefire agreement.
Thailand and Cambodia extend ceasefire, plan ASEAN observer group amid fragility
Thailand and Cambodia have extended their ceasefire for three months until mid-May, with plans to involve an ASEAN observer group to reduce tensions. The Thai Foreign Minister described the ceasefire as fragile, and the Thai military responded to Cambodian allegations of violations.
Cambodia Marks One Month of Ceasefire with Thailand, Citing No Casualties and Citizen Returns
Cambodia marked one month since its ceasefire with Thailand became effective on December 27, with government spokesman Pen Bona stating the truce has prevented further casualties and allowed displaced citizens to return. Cambodia reiterated that the ceasefire does not compromise its sovereignty.
Cambodian government reports public services resuming in seven conflict-affected provinces
The Cambodian government reports that public services are gradually resuming in the seven provinces affected by the conflict, though some facilities remain closed due to security concerns.
Cambodia reaffirms commitment to peace agreements with Thailand, rejects border changes by force
Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to internationally backed ceasefire and peace agreements with Thailand, stating it will not accept any border changes resulting from the use of force. Government spokesman Pen Bona emphasized that Phnom Penh would fully implement all agreements.
Cambodia's Interior Ministry reports 82% of displaced persons returned; Thailand addresses senator's letter
Cambodia's Interior Ministry reported that 82% of over 640,000 displaced persons have returned home since the ceasefire, though 116,779 individuals remain in displacement camps. Additionally, Thai authorities have diplomatically addressed a controversial open letter from a Cambodian senator regarding Thailand's monarchy through private channels to maintain stable relations.
Thailand erects Buddha statue on disputed Cambodia border, replacing Hindu deity
A Buddha statue has been erected on Thailand's disputed border with Cambodia, replacing a Hindu deity likeness removed last month. Cambodia has condemned this installation, indicating continued tensions despite the recent ceasefire.
China mediates talks between Thailand and Cambodia on border dispute in Beijing
The foreign ministers of Thailand and Cambodia met in Beijing, China, for talks aimed at resolving their border dispute, with China mediating the discussions. This meeting signifies a direct high-level diplomatic engagement facilitated by China to solidify the ceasefire and find a peaceful resolution.
China mediates Thailand-Cambodia peace; Canada updates travel advisory for border security concerns along border
China has taken on a more significant role in mediating peace between Thailand and Cambodia following renewed fighting in December 2025. Additionally, Canada has updated its travel advisory for Thailand, warning of unpredictable security along the border despite the ceasefire.
Cambodia's Information Minister Neth Pheakra Affirms Commitment to Peaceful Border Dispute Resolution
Cambodia's Minister of Information, Neth Pheakra, affirmed the country's commitment to peaceful solutions through international mechanisms and law in its border dispute with Thailand. He stated that Cambodia has firmly defended its sovereignty and territorial integrity against Thai military aggression.
Cambodia accuses Thailand of ceasefire violations, lodges new protests over border activities
Cambodia has accused Thailand of violating the December ceasefire by continuing to occupy civilian areas, erecting barbed wire and shipping containers, and demolishing Cambodian homes in disputed border zones. In response, Cambodia has lodged new formal protests with Thailand regarding these alleged military activities.
Thai soldier wounded in mortar strike; Thailand blames Cambodia, Cambodia cites error
A mortar strike on January 6 wounded a Thai soldier, which Thailand attributed to Cambodia, while Cambodia claimed it was an operational error. The ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia was signed on December 27, 2025.
Thailand criticizes Cambodian senator's remarks on monarchy, cites treaty violations
Thailand's Foreign Ministry has criticized a Cambodian senator's remarks concerning the Thai monarchy as improper and contrary to diplomatic etiquette. Thailand also reiterated its commitment to the December 27, 2025, Joint Statement but noted continued violations by Cambodia.
Thai Ambassador Nikorndej Balankura reports Cambodia violates joint statement
Thailand's Ambassador to France, Nikorndej Balankura, reported that Thailand has strictly adhered to the Joint Statement signed on December 27, 2025. However, Thailand observes that Cambodia continues to violate the agreement through provocative actions, both militarily and rhetorically.
US offers $45 million to reinforce Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire
The United States is offering $45 million to reinforce the ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, aiming to reassert its role as a peacemaker in Southeast Asia.
Cambodia requests Thailand to deploy joint team for border marker installation
Cambodia has formally requested Thailand to deploy a joint surveying team to resume the installation of temporary border markers. This diplomatic note, sent on January 13, 2026, proposes deployment dates between January 19 and January 23 to swiftly resolve the border issue.
Cambodia-Thailand Regional Border Committee Meets to Strengthen Ceasefire
Officials from the Cambodia-Thailand Regional Border Committee met on January 15, 2026, to strengthen the recently agreed ceasefire. Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to faithfully implement the joint statement.
Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms ceasefire commitment, protests Cambodian allegations
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on January 12, 2026, affirming its commitment to the ceasefire agreement and protesting Cambodia's allegations of illegal occupation and military operations.
Thailand accuses Cambodia of violating ceasefire, wounding Thai soldier
Thailand accused Cambodia of violating a recent ceasefire agreement, which resulted in a Thai soldier being wounded by shrapnel. This incident occurred days after Thailand had repatriated 18 Cambodian soldiers as part of the deal to halt weeks of deadly fighting.
China brokers ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia ahead of peace talks
A ceasefire agreement was signed in Yuxi, Yunnan province, just before two days of peace talks brokered by China. Thai and Cambodian foreign ministers had agreed to meet on December 22, following Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's phone calls urging an immediate ceasefire.
December 2025 — 11 developments
Thailand releases 18 Cambodian prisoners of war
Thailand released 18 Cambodian prisoners of war on December 31, 2025, as a demonstration of goodwill and confidence-building following the renewed ceasefire agreement. The soldiers had been held for 155 days.
China mediates Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire, offers ASEAN monitoring, and prisoner repatriation
Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in China to consolidate their ceasefire and rebuild mutual trust. China announced it is ready to help ASEAN observers monitor the ceasefire. The agreement also includes the repatriation of 18 Cambodian soldiers held prisoner by Thailand.
China's Wang Yi meets Thai, Cambodian diplomats to consolidate ceasefire after border clashes
Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in China to consolidate their ceasefire. Following the trilateral talks, Beijing announced that the Southeast Asian neighbors plan to rebuild mutual trust and gradually consolidate the ceasefire after weeks of fierce border clashes that killed at least 101 people and displaced over half a million.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi mediates Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire agreement
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi mediated talks between Thailand and Cambodia, leading to an agreement for a 72-hour ceasefire to address renewed border tensions.
Beijing announces Thailand and Cambodia agree to rebuild trust and consolidate ceasefire
Following trilateral talks, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to rebuild mutual trust, gradually consolidate the ceasefire, and restore exchanges. This outcome was announced by Beijing in a joint communique.
Thai and Cambodian Diplomats Meet in China to Solidify Ceasefire
Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia met in China's Yunnan province for two days of talks, mediated by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, to solidify the new ceasefire and promote lasting peace.
Thailand and Cambodia sign ceasefire agreement to halt hostilities
Thailand and Cambodia signed a new immediate ceasefire agreement, effective from noon local time, pledging to halt all hostilities after weeks of renewed deadly clashes.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi holds phone talks with Cambodian and Thai counterparts, affirms China's constructive role in peace
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held phone talks with his Cambodian and Thai counterparts on December 18, 2025, affirming China's continuous constructive role in promoting peace between the two nations. He also expressed sadness over civilian casualties and stressed urgency.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pledges China's constructive role in Cambodia-Thailand peace
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting peace between Cambodia and Thailand.
Donald Trump receives Nobel Peace Prize nomination from Cambodia after brokering Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire.
An enhanced ceasefire deal between Thailand and Cambodia was signed on October 26, 2025, with Donald Trump present, who received a Nobel Peace Prize nomination from Cambodia for his intervention. Earlier in June 2025, the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok urged restraint and offered to facilitate peace talks amid increasing troop movements.
Thailand launches air strikes against Cambodia after border clash
The armed conflict along the disputed border reignited, with Thailand launching air strikes after accusing Cambodian troops of firing first. Both countries again accused each other of breaching the ceasefire.
November 2025 — 2 developments
Thailand Halts Ceasefire Pact After Soldier Injured by Landmine
Thailand announced it was halting the implementation of the July ceasefire pact after a landmine blast injured a Thai soldier, which Cambodia denied laying.
Cambodia begins withdrawing heavy artillery from Thai border
Cambodia has initiated the withdrawal of heavy artillery and rocket systems from its border with Thailand, marking the first phase of a demilitarization agreement. This action follows the October 26 Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration.
July 2025 — 4 developments
Cambodia and Thailand Reaffirm Ceasefire Commitment with China in Shanghai
Cambodia and Thailand reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire agreement at an informal trilateral meeting with China in Shanghai, acknowledging China's constructive role in de-escalation.
Thailand and Cambodia agree to unconditional ceasefire in Kuala Lumpur
Both Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an unconditional ceasefire in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, following talks mediated by Malaysia and encouraged by the United States and China.
Trump calls leaders, who agree to meet for ceasefire
U.S. President Donald Trump called leaders of both countries, who agreed to meet soon to work out a ceasefire.
Thailand deploys F-16 jets, bombs Cambodian military target amid border clashes
Armed clashes erupted along the border, with both sides accusing the other of initiating fire. Thailand deployed F-16 jets, bombing a Cambodian military target, and fighting intensified over the following days.
May 2025 — 1 developments
Cambodian Soldier Killed in Border Skirmish Near Preah Vihear Temple
A skirmish near the Preah Vihear temple resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier, marking the first deadly clash since 2011 and triggering a new escalation of the border conflict.