Core Points - Ongoing armed conflict at the Thailand-Cambodia border has affected at least six border areas, with reports of gunfire and artillery shelling [1][3] - As of July 24, the conflict has resulted in 13 civilian and 1 soldier deaths on the Thai side, with 46 others injured, while Cambodia reported at least 1 civilian death and 5 injuries [3] - The conflict escalated after a series of exchanges of fire, artillery strikes, and rocket attacks, with Thailand deploying F-16 fighter jets for airstrikes [3] Summary by Sections Background of the Dispute - The conflict traces back to May 2023, rooted in colonial-era territorial disputes, particularly over a 1907 map drawn during French colonial rule [5] - The most notable dispute involves the Preah Vihear Temple area, which was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 1962 [5][6] Recent Developments - Following a landmine explosion that injured a Thai soldier on July 23, tensions escalated, leading to mutual accusations and the expulsion of the Cambodian ambassador by Thailand [9] - Both countries have implemented strict border controls, with Thailand closing nearly all crossing points and Cambodia halting the import of Thai goods [8] Political Implications - The conflict has intensified nationalist sentiments in both countries, with political ramifications for Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, who faced scrutiny over his handling of the border dispute [10][11] - The leaked conversation between Prayuth and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has led to widespread protests in Thailand, further destabilizing the political landscape [10][11] Regional and International Response - The United Nations Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting regarding the situation, with ASEAN expressing willingness to mediate [14] - ASEAN's ability to effectively address the conflict is challenged by the need for consensus among member states and its limited enforcement capabilities [15]

Core Viewpoint - Cambodia has submitted four disputed areas, including three ancient temples and the "Emerald Triangle," to the International Court for arbitration, amid escalating tensions with Thailand over border disputes [1][2]. Group 1: Cambodia's Position - Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Thailand for increasing military deployments, unilaterally closing border crossings, and digging trenches in sensitive areas, which has exacerbated border tensions [2]. - The Cambodian government asserts that the disputed areas fall within its sovereignty, as defined by historical treaties and agreements, including the 1904 Franco-Siamese Convention and the 1907 Franco-Siamese Boundary Treaty [2]. - Cambodia emphasizes that its decision to approach the International Court is a legal and peaceful measure, not a provocation, and remains open to resolving other border issues through existing bilateral mechanisms [2][3]. Group 2: Thailand's Response - Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its commitment to resolving the border dispute through the Joint Boundary Committee and rejected Cambodia's claims regarding the disruption of negotiations [3]. - The Thai government maintains that the 2000 memorandum of understanding stipulates that border issues should be resolved bilaterally and does not mention the involvement of the International Court or any third-party dispute resolution mechanisms [3]. - Thailand has expressed concerns over Cambodia's military actions and has stated that it acted in self-defense during recent border incidents [4]. Group 3: Impact on Bilateral Relations - The border dispute has led to the closure of border crossings, affecting a significant number of tourists and cross-border workers, indicating that neither side benefits from the ongoing tensions [4]. - Cambodia's National Assembly President has voiced support for the government's decision to take the border dispute to the International Court, framing Cambodia as a victim of Thailand's internal political struggles [3].