Thailand and cambodia at war.
Thailand airstrikes hit Cambodia; 15 killed in clashes.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on both Thailand and Cambodia to exercise maximum restraint amid escalating border tensions that have already resulted in at least 15 deaths. According to U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq, Guterres strongly urged both sides to avoid further violence and to resolve their differences through peaceful dialogue and diplomatic means. The United Nations expressed deep concern over the situation and emphasized the importance of preventing further escalation.
Thai-Cambodian Border Clashes Escalate, Leaving At Least 15 Dead
escalating long-standing tensions to dangerous new levels. Among the dead was one soldier, while others killed were caught in the crossfire as both sides exchanged heavy fire, including the use of small arms, artillery, rockets, and even aerial strikes by Thailand.
The violence marks a significant deterioration in relations between the two neighboring countries, which have a long history of border disputes, particularly around the ancient Preah Vihear temple area and other contested zones. Thursday’s fighting (July 24, 2025) broke out in at least six separate locations along the border, according to Thai Defence Ministry spokesperson Surasant Kongsiri, who briefed the media in Bangkok.
In response to the mine blast, Thailand quickly escalated its diplomatic response, withdrawing its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelling Cambodia’s envoy to Bangkok. The reciprocal expulsion of diplomats signaled a swift deterioration of diplomatic channels and foreshadowed Thursday’s outbreak of violence.
According to eyewitnesses and local officials on both sides, the fighting was intense and sustained for several hours. Civilians living in nearby villages were forced to flee their homes in panic, many seeking temporary refuge in makeshift shelters or evacuation centers set up by local authorities. Although neither side has officially declared war, the scope and coordination of military activity suggest a more organized military campaign than isolated skirmishes.
Both governments have issued statements blaming the other for the escalation. Thailand claims Cambodia has repeatedly violated agreements concerning demilitarized zones and accused Phnom Penh of laying illegal landmines. Cambodian officials, on the other hand, assert that Thai military forces crossed into Cambodian territory in a provocative move and fired first, prompting a defensive response.
Regional observers and diplomatic sources have expressed grave concern that the situation could spiral out of control if immediate steps toward de-escalation are not taken. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has called for an emergency meeting to address the crisis and prevent a broader conflict. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a statement through U.N. the negotiating table and resume diplomatic efforts that had previously kept the peace despite underlying tensions.
As of now, both Thai and Cambodian military units remain on high alert, with reinforcements reportedly being deployed to key border areas. Civilians in border towns are bracing for further violence, and humanitarian organizations have started assessing needs in anticipation of a potential refugee situation if the conflict continues.
The coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevail or if the region is on the verge of a broader and bloodier confrontation.