BANGKOK/PHNOM PENH, July 9 – A long‑running and unstable boundary dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified into a serious geopolitical flashpoint, involving military build‑ups, economic retaliation, and diplomatic brinkmanship on both sides.

On May 28, a brief but deadly skirmish erupted in the undemarcated Chong Bok area along their 820 km frontier, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier. Both nations blamed each other for initiating hostilities. In response, Thailand reinforced its military presence and placed border checkpoints under army control; Cambodia reciprocated with its own troop deployments and economic measures including bans on Thai fruit, vegetables, fuel, electricity and internet access.

Despite a June 5 diplomatic meeting under the Joint Boundary Commission, both sides agreed to revert forces to agreed positions, while failing to reach lasting resolutions. Cambodia has formally appealed to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to adjudicate four contentious zones, including temple complexes and tripoint border regions. Thailand, however, continues to resist ICJ involvement, insisting disputes be resolved through bilateral channels.

Economic and Social Fallout

Cross-border trade—worth approximately US$4 billion annually—has suffered significant disruption. Reduced hours at Sa Kaeo and other crossings have shuttered local businesses, casinos and employment hubs. Analysts estimate combined losses may exceed THB 500 million per day, undermining tourism and investment while heightening economic instability for communities along the frontier.

Domestic Political Fallout

The border crisis has also triggered political turbulence in Thailand. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who called for de‑escalation and reaffirmed national sovereignty, now faces scrutiny over leaked communications with Cambodian leadership. Her handling of the issue has prompted an ethics investigation and accelerated coalition instability, further complicating diplomatic diplomacy.

ASEAN and Regional Implications

The episode highlights ASEAN’s limited capacity to mediate intra‑bloc crises under its non‑interference principles. While calls for calm have been issued by Indonesia and Malaysia, no formal mediation has been pursued. Observers warn that unless both capitals agree on a legal and diplomatic matrix, including possible ICJ referral or trilateral ASEAN facilitation, the dispute risks erupting again—jeopardizing regional cohesion.

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References

Reuters. (2025). Cambodia turns to World Court over Thailand border disputes.
Reuters. (2025). Thailand and Cambodia say they will return to agreed border positions after fatal clash.
Reuters. (2025). Thailand and Cambodia reinforcing troops on disputed border after May skirmish, Thai minister says.
Al Jazeera. (2025). Fruit and veg threat extends Thailand‑Cambodia border row.
DW. (2025). How Cambodia‑Thailand border dispute affects communities.