Core Viewpoint - The recent military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia highlights the longstanding border disputes and the fragility of diplomatic relations between the two nations, exacerbated by recent incidents and political tensions [2][5]. Summary by Sections Conflict Overview - On July 24, 2025, soldiers from Thailand and Cambodia clashed at the border, with both sides accusing each other of initiating fire. The conflict escalated with Thailand deploying F-16 fighter jets to destroy Cambodian military facilities [2][4]. Background of Tensions - The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has persisted for over a century, with unresolved territorial claims. The recent clashes began on May 28, 2025, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier and further straining relations [2][6]. Recent Incidents - On July 24, Cambodian forces reportedly fired rockets into Thailand, leading to civilian casualties, including 9 deaths and 14 injuries among Thai civilians. In response, Thailand announced the closure of all border crossings with Cambodia [4][5]. Diplomatic Relations - Following the escalation, Thailand downgraded its diplomatic relations with Cambodia, recalling its ambassador and expelling the Cambodian ambassador. Cambodia reciprocated by lowering its diplomatic ties to the lowest level [5][6]. Historical Context - The border conflict is particularly centered around the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which has been a focal point of territorial disputes since its designation in 2008. Previous military confrontations occurred in 2008 and 2011, indicating a pattern of recurring violence over this disputed area [6][7]. Political Implications - The recent "recording incident" involving Thai Prime Minister Phaetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has complicated diplomatic efforts, leading to Phaetongtarn's suspension from her duties as Prime Minister due to perceived mismanagement of the situation [8][9].

Core Viewpoint - The recent military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia at their border highlights the long-standing territorial disputes, particularly centered around the Preah Vihear Temple, which has escalated tensions and resulted in casualties on both sides [2][6]. Summary by Sections Conflict Overview - On the 24th, soldiers from both Thailand and Cambodia engaged in a border conflict, with each side accusing the other of initiating fire. Thailand reported that Cambodian forces fired first, leading to the deployment of F-16 fighter jets to destroy two Cambodian military facilities [2][4]. - The conflict has resulted in the deaths of 9 Thai civilians and injuries to 14 others, prompting Thailand to close all border crossings with Cambodia [4]. Diplomatic Relations - In response to the conflict, Thailand downgraded its diplomatic relations with Cambodia, recalling its ambassador and expelling the Cambodian ambassador from Thailand. Cambodia reciprocated by lowering its diplomatic ties to the lowest level [4][5]. - The Thai government cited the injury of a Thai soldier from a landmine, allegedly newly placed by Cambodia, as a reason for the diplomatic downgrade [5]. Historical Context - The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has persisted for over a century, with the Preah Vihear Temple being a focal point of contention. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008, has been a source of military confrontations, including a notable clash in 2008 [6][7]. - Recent tensions were exacerbated by a leaked phone conversation between Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, which led to political fallout in Thailand and further complicated diplomatic relations [6][7].