ASIATODAY.ID, TA MUEN THOM – Thailand-Cambodia Border – Armed clashes have once again erupted between Thailand and Cambodia as of mid-July 2025, with a series of incidents involving landmines, drone surveillance, rocket attacks, and airstrikes across contested border zones. The escalation has led to multiple casualties, including military personnel and civilians.
Tensions flared near the ancient Ta Muen Thom temple complex and the disputed area in Preah Vihear Province, marking one of the most serious military standoffs in recent years between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
Root Causes: A Bloody History and Cambodia’s Landmine Crisis
This conflict did not arise in a vacuum. Cambodia has long struggled with landmine contamination—remnants of its violent civil wars. According to the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), all 25 provinces in Cambodia are still affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO), dating back to the Khmer Rouge era and other armed factions from the 1970s.
The NGO APOPO estimates that between 4 and 6 million landmines and UXO remain scattered across Cambodian territory. Since 1979, over 64,000 people have fallen victim, with new casualties still reported every week.
Political Scandal in Thailand Sparks Domestic Crisis
Tensions escalated sharply on June 15, 2025, when The Guardian published leaked audio of a private phone call between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian PM Hun Sen. In the call, Paetongtarn affectionately referred to Hun Sen as “uncle,” offered personal favors, and criticized Thai military officials.
Public backlash was swift. On July 1, the Thai Constitutional Court suspended Paetongtarn pending an ethics investigation. Protests erupted in Bangkok, with tens of thousands demanding her resignation. Meanwhile, her father, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, was summoned to court on charges of insulting the monarchy—further weakening the Shinawatra family’s political standing amid rumors of a looming conservative military takeover.
Timeline of the Armed Escalation
July 23, 2025 – Landmine Explosion in Ubon Ratchathani
Chong An Ma, Nam Yuen District
At 16:55 local time, a Thai army spokesperson reported a landmine explosion suspected to have been planted by Cambodian forces. Five soldiers from the 14th Infantry Battalion were injured, one seriously. The Thai Army immediately mobilized operations under “Chakraphong Phuwanat”, condemning Cambodia’s actions as violations of international humanitarian law.
July 24, 2025 – Tensions Surge at Ta Muen Thom Temple
06:30 – Cambodia accused Thai troops of entering the sacred temple site.
07:04 – 08:46 – Both sides exchanged accusations of airspace violations via reconnaissance drones. Thailand claimed Cambodian forces fired first at their eastern base near the temple complex.
08:47 – Cambodia insisted its forces responded only in self-defense against Thai aggression.
Rocket and Airstrike Exchange
09:40 – Two BM-21 rockets, allegedly launched from Cambodia, struck a civilian area in Kab Choeng District, Surin Province, injuring three civilians.
11:30 – In a major escalation, Thailand’s Royal Air Force launched F-16 airstrikes on Cambodian military positions in Preah Vihear, marking the first confirmed use of airpower in this conflict. Ground clashes were also reported in the Dangrek mountain range.
Official Responses: Sovereignty, Retaliation, and Diplomatic Tensions
Cambodian Defense Ministry Spokesman Gen. Mali Sujata condemned Thailand’s actions as blatant violations of national sovereignty and the UN Charter. While Cambodia reiterated its commitment to peaceful resolution, it also emphasized readiness to defend itself under Article 51 of the UN Charter.
In contrast, Thai Army officials described Cambodia’s rocket attacks on civilians as “heinous and unlawful,” stating that Thailand’s retaliatory measures were aimed at protecting its soldiers and civilians.
The Thai government has since evacuated residents from affected areas and is reportedly preparing for broader contingencies amid fears of further escalation.
What’s Next for Southeast Asia?
The renewed armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia underscores how fragile peace remains in the region. With historical tensions, unresolved border disputes, political instability, and active military operations in play, the potential for a wider regional crisis looms.
Observers are calling on ASEAN and international actors to step in and facilitate urgent diplomatic dialogue before the situation spirals out of control. (AT Network)
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