Cambodia Closes Thailand Border Crossings Amid Ongoing Conflict

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Cambodia Closes Thailand Border Crossings Amid Ongoing Conflict

Recent escalations in the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia have prompted Cambodia to close its border crossings with Thailand. This decision follows a series of violent incidents and military engagements that have left many casualties on both sides.

Overview of Recent Conflicts

The situation deteriorated on December 13, 2025, when Thai fighter jets bombed various targets in Cambodia, including hotels and bridges. Conversely, Thai sources reported injuries to civilians due to rocket attacks launched by Cambodia. The latest reports indicate a total of 15 military deaths for Thailand since the conflict reignited, along with over 270 injuries. In Cambodia, the death toll rose to at least 11 civilians dead and 59 others wounded.

Evacuations and Claims of Hostilities

In light of the ongoing violence, approximately 700,000 people have been evacuated from both countries. U.S. President Donald Trump previously asserted that he could mediate an end to the conflict simply by making a phone call. Following talks with the prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia, he announced on social media that both nations had agreed to a temporary ceasefire.

Stipulations for Ceasefire

Despite the announcement, both leaders did not confirm an immediate ceasefire. Thai Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that Thailand was not the aggressor. He expressed the necessity for Cambodia to withdraw its military and clear landmines from the border prior to any ceasefire. Cambodia, however, maintains that it must continue fighting to protect its national sovereignty.

Background and Historical Context

These tensions are rooted in a long-standing dispute over the 800 km land border, delineated by French cartographers in 1907 during Cambodia’s colonial period. Since then, both countries have exchanged accusations of initiating hostilities. This week’s conflict was ignited following skirmishes that left two Thai soldiers injured, prompting air strikes by Thailand and rocket attacks by Cambodia.

International Involvement

In response to the heightened violence, both nations have engaged with international leaders. The ceasefire agreement was initially brokered by Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in October, but since then, allegations of breaches have persisted. Each side has provided evidence of ongoing ceasefire violations, with Thailand alleging that Cambodian troops have been laying landmines—a claim Cambodia attributes to remnants from its civil war in the 1980s.

Current Military Actions

As tensions rise, both Thailand and Cambodia have continued military operations against one another. Thailand announced that its air strikes have not ceased, while Cambodia has reported ongoing rocket attacks. The conflict remains fluid, affecting multiple provinces in both countries.