2025 Cambodia–Thailand border conflict

Cambodia–Thailand border conflict
Part of the Cambodian–Thai border dispute
Map of Cambodia with its border with Thailand marked in red
Date 28 May 2025 – present (2 months and 1 day) Location Cambodia–Thailand border Spillover into: Laos Status Ongoing Tensions escalated into military conflict Ceasefire effective at midnight 28 July 2025 Alleged ceasefire violations by Cambodia Territorial changes Cambodia claims to have occupied Mom Bei. Thailand claims to have occupied Chong Ahn Ma. 90% of Phu Makeua peak controlled by Thailand despite ongoing skirmishes. Both countries claimed to have occupied Prasat Ta Krabey and Prasat Ta Muen Thom.
Belligerents
Cambodia	Thailand
Commanders and leaders
Hun Manet Hun Sen Tea Seiha Mao Sophan Maly Socheata Srey Dek Duong Samneang †	Phumtham Wechayachai Natthaphon Narkphanit Songwit Noonpakdee Phana Khlaeoplotthuk Punpakdee Pattanakul Sompop Pharawet Boonsin Padklang Amarit Bunsuya Jirapol Wongwit Nattapol Diewwanich Apichart Supprasert
Units involved
Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Royal Cambodian Army 4th Military Region 7th Division 8th Division 9th Division	Royal Thai Armed Forces Royal Thai Army 2nd Army Area Suranaree Command 1st Army Area Burapa Command Thahan Phran Royal Thai Air Force Royal Thai Navy Royal Thai Navy SEALs Royal Thai Marine Corps Royal Thai Police Border Patrol Police
Casualties and losses
Per Cambodia: 6 soldiers killed 8 civilians killed 71 soldiers and civilians injured 134,707 displaced Per Thailand: 100 soldiers killed 2 divisional command posts destroyed 2 tanks destroyed 3 artillery pieces destroyed 1 PHL-03 destroyed	Per Thailand: 11 soldiers killed 29 soldiers injured 13 civilians killed 36 civilians injured 138,000+ civilians displaced
272,707+ total displaced civilians

Following a brief skirmish on the Cambodia–Thailand border on 28 May 2025, the territorial dispute between the two countries reignited, escalating into a deterioration of relations and ultimately into a direct armed conflict, which began on 24 July 2025. Since then and as of 26 July, at least 38 people have been killed in the hostilities and up to 200,000 have been displaced.

The dispute originates with the Franco-Siamese treaty of 1907 between the Kingdom of Siam (now Thailand) and the French Third Republic, the latter of which ruled over French Indochina (which included today's Cambodia). After Cambodian independence, the disputed Preah Vihear Temple was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1962, but it and other disputed border areas remained contested. Nationalist sentiments in both countries have fueled tensions. Between 2008 and 2011, skirmishes between the two led to casualties on both sides.

According to Nathan Ruser, a satellite data analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), the military tensions leading up to the 24 July 2025 clash between Thailand and Cambodia appear to have originated primarily from the Cambodian side. Cambodian forces had reinforced multiple positions prior to the 28 May incident and swiftly deployed strategic reinforcements afterward. His analysis found that Cambodia was responsible for 33 escalatory events, Thailand for 14, and there were 9 joint de-escalatory actions.

On 23 July, a Thai soldier stepped on a PMN-2 landmine in the Nam Yuen district of Ubon Ratchathani, resulting in him losing a leg. The following day, direct armed conflict broke out between the two nations, with both Cambodia and Thailand claiming to have acted in self-defence.

Background

Main article: Cambodian–Thai border dispute

The Preah Vihear Temple case before the International Court of Justice in 1961

The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has its roots in the ambiguities of the Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1904, which established certain border demarcations between the Kingdom of Siam (modern Thailand) and French Indochina (modern Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam). In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that sovereignty over the Preah Vihear, an 11th century Angkorian temple belonged to Cambodia, but tensions remained as the sovereignty over the surrounding territory had not been settled. Between 2008 and 2011, multiple soldiers and civillians were killed in repeated border clashes that were fueled by nationalist sentiment in both countries. In 2011, the ICJ deferred the dispute to ASEAN, but progress stalled after Thailand revoked permission for international observers. Cambodia returned to the ICJ, but Thailand took the position that delimitation must be on a bilateral basis and rejected the Court's jurisdiction. The ICJ's ruling thus had no practical effect.

Prelude

On 13 February 2025, Thai soldiers aggresively prevented Cambodian tourists from singing the Cambodian national anthem at the disputed Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple. On 28 May, Cambodian and Thai soldiers briefly exchanged fire between each other, resulting in the death of one Cambodian soldier. Attempts to de-escalate failed, with continued tensions leading to border checkpoint closures. Discussions between the Cambodian and Thai militaries were held on 29 May. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet responded to the 28 May incident by seeking a ruling from the ICJ, saying that he did not want to see a conflict with Thailand. Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand's acting prime minister, said that neither side wanted to escalate the conflict and that it had been resolved.

Emerald Triangle skirmish

On 28 May, Cambodian and Thai soldiers engaged in a brief 10-minute skirmish, resulting in the death of one Cambodian soldier, Second Lieutenant Suon Roun. The skirmish occurred in the Emerald Triangle along the border of Cambodia's Preah Vihear province and Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani province. Both countries claimed each other was the aggressor. Mao Phalla, spokesperson for the Cambodian army, claimed that Thai soldiers were the first to open fire on Cambodian soldiers in a trench that had been in use for a while. Meanwhile, Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Thai army, claimed that Thai soldiers had attempted to persuade the Cambodian soldiers to withdraw before the Cambodians opened fire.

Attempts to de-escalate and continued tensions

Following the clash in the Emerald Triangle, Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet responded by announcing the initiation of proceedings to submit the matter to the ICJ, while affirming he did not wish for conflict with Thailand. On the Thai side, Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that neither side wished for the situation to escalate further and confirmed that the incident had already been resolved. On 29 May, a meeting was held between General Phana Khlaeoplotthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army (RTA), and General Mao Sophan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Army, to coordinate efforts to reduce tensions and prevent future incidents.

Bilateral talks to de-escalate were held on 5 June, but failed to culminate to anything concrete. Phumtham claimed that Cambodia had rejected Thailand's proposals and that, on 7 June, Thailand would reinforce its military presence on the border. Separately on the same date, the Thai army claimed that Cambodian civilians were making frequent incursions into Thai territory and that "these provocations, and the buildup of military forces, indicate a clear intent to use force." On 17 June, Cambodia announced that they have banned the imports of fruits and soap opera from Thailand.

Border checkpoint closures

Thailand's first border closure order (left) and Cambodia's order (right)

Trat province fell under the broader context of border management reform after the Ministry of Defence delegated authority over border areas to the RTA, following a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) held on 7 June 2025. The proposal was initiated by Paetongtarn. Under this mandate, the army issued orders to its respective field units to strictly enforce border controls, including regulating opening and closing times of checkpoints along the Cambodian frontier. Although there were no immediate official closures, this delegation allowed regional commanders to act at their discretion based on local conditions.

An unconfirmed report on 20 June 2025 stated that the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs had recalled its ambassador and downgraded diplomatic relations with Cambodia to the chargé d'affaires level in retaliation. However, a separate unconfirmed report by the same publisher later stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified it had only recalled the ambassador to Thailand to "assess" the situation.

On the evening of 21 June 2025, Boonsin exercised discretion under the powers granted through the NSC and army directives and approved the indefinite closure of the Chong Sai Taku trade relief checkpoint in Ban Kruat district, Buri Ram province, citing national security, the safety of life and property, and operational suitability for border officers. This marked the first stringent measure since the central delegation of authority and became a key turning point in policy-based retaliation between Thailand and Cambodia at the local level.

As a result of the checkpoint closure, Cambodia issued a response the following morning. At 7 a.m. on 22 June 2025, Hun Manet announced via his Facebook page the Cambodian government's decision to close the Ban Jup Koki checkpoint, located in Banteay Ampil District, Oddar Meanchey province, directly opposite Thailand's Chong Sai Taku checkpoint. Additionally, Cambodia ordered the closure of another checkpoint, Chong Choum, in Anlong Veng District, Oddar Meanchey, which faces Thailand's Chong Sa-Ngam permanent border checkpoint in Phu Sing district, Sisaket province. In addition to announcing the closures, Hun Manet stated on Facebook: "Starting from midnight tonight, all fuel and gas imports from Thailand will be halted."

Ban Hat Lek

Ban Phakkhat

Ban Laem

Ban Khlong Luek

Friendship Bridge

Ban Khao Din

Chong Chom

Chong Sa-Ngam

class=notpageimage|

Blue: Thailand's permanent checkpoints
Red: Thailand's trade checkpoints

On 23 June 2025 at 15:20, Paetongtarn delivered a statement following a meeting to address transnational crime. She was accompanied by General Songwit Noonpackdee, Chief of Defence Forces, Police General Thatchai Pitanilobut, Inspector General of the Royal Thai Police, and other relevant agencies. The government aimed to enhance its international cooperation in tackling transnational crime, with Cambodia being a key focus as a source of such crimes affecting the global community, according to United Nations reports. Thailand deemed this a security threat and raised countermeasures across all national agencies, including strict border control across all seven provinces bordering Cambodia, and increased scrutiny over flights to Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport. The move impacted Emirates, which had recently launched its route to Suvarnabhumi Airport on 3 June.

The government also began reviewing financial routes and implementing crackdowns on transnational crime, alongside relief measures for businesses affected in the industrial, service, and agricultural sectors.

Thailand subsequently closed all border checkpoints along the Cambodia–Thailand border, under military authority granted by the NSC. At 19:10, the First Army Region issued an order affecting all checkpoints in Sa Kaeo province, suspending cross-border traffic of all vehicles and persons, except for humanitarian cases (education, urgent medical care). Later, the Second Army Region issued similar orders for Surin, Sisaket, and Buriram, maintaining the same bans but allowing agricultural and essential consumer goods to cross. Finally, the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command issued an order covering Chanthaburi and Trat, applying the same humanitarian and limited trade exceptions.

All three military orders cited national security concerns and the need to intensify the fight against transnational crimes, particularly those involving human trafficking, call center gangs, and hybrid scams, in order to protect Thai lives, property, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

The following weeks were marked by further border incidents and continued deterioration of relations:

• 24 June 2025: The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) opened a preliminary investigation into Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra concerning alleged serious violations of the code of ethics stemming from a controversial conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen regarding the Thai-Cambodian border dispute.
• 26 June 2025: The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) claimed they had shot down four unknown drones over the border in Chanthaburi province using anti-drone measures earlier in the week.
• 4 July 2025: A verbal confrontation between a group of armed Cambodian soldiers and armed Thahan Phran occurred in the disputed area in Si Saket Province, with both sides backing down without violence.
• 13 July 2025: An incident occurred at Ta Muean Thom in Surin province when a Thai tourist attacked a Cambodian soldier by punching him before running away. The perpetrator was later identified and apprehended by Thai officials.

Landmine incident

Three RTA soldiers suffered injuries during a patrol in the Emerald Triangle area when they accidentally stepped on a landmine. It was initially speculated that the mine was left over from the Cold War, however later evidence suggested that they were newer Russian PMN-2 mines. One of the injured lost one of his legs. Thailand said it was planning to take this matter to the United Nations, as Cambodia is a signatory to the Ottawa Treaty.

Heng Ratana, representative of the Cambodian Mine Action Center, claimed in a Facebook post that "In this case of new Landmines recently laid in Thailand there are a number of Social Media in Thailand have shown their armed forces did it..." and to instead take the matter to the ICJ. The RTA accused Cambodia of spreading misinformation, and that footage provided by Cambodian sources were of Thai soldiers defusing mines.

Following demining operations by the RTA, at least two additional PMN-2 mines were discovered near the original site of the explosion. The mines were described to be in "New and Ready to deploy conditions". Additionally, the RTA has condemned this as a "Clear Violation of Thailand's sovereignty" and called on other nations to condemn Cambodia.

On 23 July 2025, another Thai patrol group consisting of five soldiers were injured by a Cambodian mine, including one severely, losing his right leg. The incident occurred at Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani Province. As a response, the RTA announced a message that it severely condemned the "inhumane act which is a violation of Human rights and International Agreements" and that is was an "Act which is a threat to peace and stability in the border region."

The RTA has subsequently announced it would close four border checkpoints and two temples (Ta Muen Thom and Ta Krabey) indefinitely and has put its forces in the area at combat readiness.

Later on 23 July 2025, Thailand downgraded diplomatic ties with Cambodia. Thailand recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled Cambodia's envoy from Bangkok.

Military conflict (24 July–present)

Both parties have attributed responsibility for initiating the hostilities on 24 July 2025 to one another. According to Thailand, at least six soldiers and 13 civilians have been killed, while 14 soldiers and 32 civilians have been injured. An additional 140,000 civilians have been evacuated. According to Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence, five soldiers and 8 civilians have been killed, and 21 soldiers, along with more than 50 civilians, have been injured. As of 27 July, the defense ministry affirmed that 134,707 individuals have been displaced across four of the border provinces, many of whom were relocated under emergency conditions as the conflict escalated.

24 July

Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple

On the morning of 24 July 2025, Thai soldiers reported that Cambodian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were flying around the area in front of the Thai-administered Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple and spotted six armed Cambodian soldiers approaching the barbed wire in front of the Thai base. The RTA backed the reports stating that Cambodian troops opened fire on Thai forces roughly 200 meters east of Ta Muen Thom Temple.

On the same day, Cambodia claimed that the Thai military had launched an armed assault on Cambodian forces and forcibly sealed off public access to the Ta Muen Thom Temple. According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, "Cambodian forces acted strictly within the bounds of self-defense, responding to an unprovoked incursion by Thai troops that violated our territorial integrity."

At 9:40 a.m., the RTA claimed that Cambodia fired a BM-21 self-propelled multiple rocket launcher towards Prasat Don Tuan, near a residential area. At 9:50 a.m, Thailand claimed that Cambodian forces tried to gain access to a Thai territory near the Ta Kwai Temple, and they had responded with artillery fire.

At 10:58, six Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) F-16s bombed Cambodian positions in Chong An Ma, Ubon Ratchathani province, with Thailand later confirming that Cambodia's 8th Infantry Division and the 9th Infantry Division command posts were destroyed as a result of the strikes. The Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh requested Thai citizens residing in Cambodia leave immediately, adding that the clashes are "likely to extend and expand". Thailand also announced the closure of its border with Cambodia.

A gas station in Sisaket province was hit by Cambodian BM-21 Grad rockets, resulting in widespread civilian casualties, including at least eight fatalities, including an 8-year-old boy. At 11:54 a.m., Royal Cambodian Army's BM-21 also attacked the Phnom Dongrak hospital, resulting in several injuries and the hospital being evacuated. The hospital suffered significant damage.

At 14:41, the RTA claimed they had destroyed two Cambodian tanks at Khao Sattasom. At 15:00, the Thai military launched a land and air offensive, codenamed "Operation Yuttha Bodin", in response to ongoing clashes with the invading Cambodian forces along the border. The offensive was led by General Pana Klaewblaudtuk.

In the evening, Senate president Hun Sen alleged that Cambodia had "no choice but to fight back against Thailand", adding that he participated in the military command via video link. Sen stated that he did not travel abroad as reported in Thai media, and blamed the Thai military for escalating the situation, claiming that the Thais are planning to close the entrance to Ta Muen Thom Temple. At the same evening, the provincial administration of Oddar Meanchey province in Cambodia stated that 5,000 citizens had been evacuated from the conflict area. At least four Cambodian civilians were wounded in the clashes.

The RTAF condemned Cambodia's actions in using weapons to attack civilians and said it is "ready to defend the people and sovereignty from human rights violations". It claimed to have launched at least two air strikes against Cambodian positions, with one strike confirmed by footage. It denied claims from Cambodian media outlets their F-16 aircraft were shot down by AA guns. A video was posted showing a RTA drone dropping grenades on several Cambodian ammunition dumps before catching fire and crashing.

Lieutenant General Maly Socheata stated that after a long clash with Thai forces, Cambodian troops occupied the Ta Krabey Temple, the Mom Bei area, and the Ta Moan Thom Temple.

25 July

Clashes continued in Preah Vihear and Ta Krabey areas between the two forces. Heavy artillery fire was reported in border areas of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear. Cambodian media outlets claimed that Cambodia retains all strongholds across the border. According to RTA spokesperson Richa Sooksuwanon, the clashes started at 4:30 am after Cambodia initiated the fighting using small-arms and heavy weapons and the RTA responded with artillery fire. He also stated that they were conducting bomb disposal operations and retrieving bodies from Kantharalak district that had been hit by a Cambodian rocket on 24 July.

Acting Prime Minister of Thailand Phumtham Wechayachai stated on the second day of clashes that the conflict could turn into a full scale war if the situation worsened. Following offers from the United States, China and Malaysia, which is the current chair of the ASEAN regional bloc to facilitate dialogue, Thailand has rejected the proposal of mediation from a third country to end the ongoing conflict, opting to resolve the situation only through bilateral talks.

The Royal Thai 2nd Army announced that Cambodia was placing its troops in close combat with Thai troops to prevent Thailand from using its artillery and air force, and Cambodia was beginning an armoured assault in Cham Tae. They also demanded that Cambodia halt military operations against Thailand and return to the negotiating table.

The Cambodian military claims that Thai forces launched multiple assaults in Khloch region as well as Takrabei and Ta Moan Temple. They stated that Thailand used cluster munitions to bomb the Kholch region as well as Choam Khsant District, violating international conventions, and that the RTA launched offensives to take control of the Takrabei temple, but control remained with Cambodia. Both Thailand and Cambodia did not sign the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

Clashes continued on 25 July, with the report of strikes by the Thai military in the early morning hours, along with the use of F-16 fighter jets and cluster munitions on Cambodia. Thailand carried out airstrikes against 7 locations inside Cambodia. The Cambodian military stated that Thai forces, using F-16 jets, dropped bombs four times around Preah Vihear Temple, three times on Wat Keo Sikha Kiriswar and one time in the Takrabei region and shelled a primary school in Oddar Meanchey province. Four explosives landed on a primary school in Oddar Meanchey province, prompting the closure of all schools in the province. On the same day, the RTN declared Martial Law in areas bordering Cambodia in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces.

The RTN posted an announcement online in which they accused Cambodia of violating the Geneva Convention and committing war crimes by "Deliberately bombing hospitals, communities and historical sites that belong to Thailand."

The RTA reported that around 100 invading Cambodian soldiers were killed in the Phu Phi area during their attempts to capture Hill 469.

Martial law was declared in Thailand in eight districts of Chanthaburi and Trat provinces bordering Cambodia.

26 July

The RTN claimed that Cambodian troops had launched a new offensive operation in the area of Ban Chamrak, Trat Province, attacking three points along the border.

At 05:10 AM, reports emerged of clashes beginning in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces. The Ekphap Village, Thmar Da Commune and Veal Veng District in Cambodia were claimed to be shelled early in the morning by Thai artillery, injuring three villagers. The attack was condemned by Cambodia as unprovoked and premeditated attack against civilians.

The RTN launched Operation Trat Phikhat Phairi 1 in response against Cambodian force's three points attacks. By 5:40 a.m. it claimed to have pushed back the Cambodian advances.

On the same day, reports emerged that 10 artillery shells fell into Lao territory during a clash between Thai and Cambodian forces, causing damage. The RTA accused Cambodia of being the perpetrator. The RTA later said it was unclear which party the shells came from, while the Cambodia's Ministry of Defense denied the allegations, accusing the Thai military of spreading false and misleading information online.

In the early morning, Thailand reportedly pushed back Cambodian forces and captured Phu Makeua and Major general Duong Somneang, a commander of Cambodia's 7th Division, was killed by an artillery strike at the Chong Ta Thao–Phu Ma Kua area on this day.

UAV sightings were reported in Khlong Yai in Thailand. Authorities urged the public to report any suspicious activities.

At 8:20 AM, the RTN deployed a task force of four vessels as part of the operation in the Koh Kood District and Ban Hat Lek. The force includes fast attack gunboats and patrol gunboats.

The RTAF conducted airstrikes using two F-16 and two Gripens covering Cambodian strategic locations in Ta Kwai Temple in Surin Province.

Thailand reported capturing two areas in Ta Phraya District and two areas in Khok Sung District from Cambodian forces. Thailand intensified its attacks on several Cambodian border areas. Cambodia initiated defensive measures against Thailand.

In the evening, the Thahan Phran reported to have successfully captured Ta Krabey temple from Cambodia, losing three soldiers in the process.

27 July

Reports emerged from Cambodia that the Thai military continued shelling into Cambodian territory targeting religious and civilian infrastructure, despite phone calls between both leaders and U.S. President Donald Trump the previous night. As the fighting intensified, Cambodia continued to report Thai shelling and bombings on Oddar Meanchey province's capital of Samraong and other civilian locations. Reports by Thai sources released photos of Cambodian artillery damage in a clinic in Si Saket Province.

At 4:30 AM, Thailand reported that Cambodian troops fired at Thai forces at Prasat Ta Kwai. At 6:40 AM, Cambodian troops launched assaults with heavy weaponry against Thai forces in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province. According to Thai media outlets, Cambodia fired BM-21 Grad rockets into the Ta Muen Thom Temple. In the early morning, Thai sources claimed Thailand recaptured Chong Ahn Ma.

On the same day, 12 bodies of Cambodian soldiers were repatriated, according to the RTA.

In the afternoon, the RTA claimed to have destroyed a Cambodian PHL-03 rocket artillery system. Two RTAF squadrons of four F-16 jets bombed strategic areas in Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai.

28 July

As Cambodia and Thailand prepare to meet for ceasefire talks in Malaysia, Cambodian sources said that the Thai military increased their offensive in the early morning hours, targeting Cambodian key military positions along the border. Whilst Thai media reported that clashes broke out at around 3 AM in Surin province. Later on in the morning, Surin province was declared a War Disaster Zone.

Cambodia accused Thailand of using chemical weapons in the morning attack, which was denied by Thailand, which described the claims as "groundless and reflects a pattern of disinformation."

A few hours before the ceasefire, Thai sources reported very heavy fighting along the frontline, particulary in Ta Krabey temple and Chong Ahn Ma. Thai sources also claimed that the Body Guard Headquarters (BHQ), Hun Sen's personal bodyguard unit, had become involved in combat at Ta Krabey.

29 July

The RTA accused Cambodia of violating the ceasefire.

Negotiations

On 2 June, Hun Manet announced that the Cambodian government would file a complaint to the ICJ, stating his hope that Thailand would agree to let the issue go to the ICJ and prevent any armed confrontations. Thailand, however, does not recognise the jurisdiction of the ICJ. Phumtham instead said any issues should be resolved through bilateral negotiations.

On 24 July, after armed conflict had broken out, Hun Manet announced his letter to the President of the United Nations Security Council, requesting an urgent meeting of the Security Council to stop "Thailand's aggression against Cambodia's sovereignty."

On 25 July, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council to clarify that Thailand has clear evidence that Cambodia has invaded its sovereignty and requested the UNSC President to circulate the letter to all member states. They also issued a statement that Cambodia's actions are violations of international law and have been repeated since Thai soldiers stepped on landmines on 16 and 23 July. The Thai government called on Cambodia to take responsibility for the incidents and immediately cease attacks on military and civilian targets which violates several Geneva Conventions acts.

Later on 25 July, Thailand rejected mediation offers from the United States, China, and Malaysia (the current ASEAN chair), stating that they "would like to have [the] matter resolved bilaterally". On the same day, Hun Manet revealed that Cambodia and Thailand had initially agreed on a ceasefire proposed by Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim, but Thailand had retracted an hour before the proposed ceasefire came into effect at midnight on 24 July. That same day Cambodia's ambassador to the United Nations, Chhea Keo, called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with Thailand.

On 26 July, U.S. President Donald Trump said that he held a phone call with both Thai and Cambodian prime minister to mediate both countries. Trump also stated on his Truth Social account that both sides agreed on ceasefire while Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that it will require sincerity from the Cambodian side. On 27 July, Phumtham expressed appreciation to the concern and support by Trump and other similar sentiments but insisted on prefering a bilateral dialogue with Cambodia, and does not wish for third-party intervention in resolving the ongoing border conflict. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said the State Department sent delegates to Malaysia to observe the peace negotiations.

On the evening of 27 July, the Malaysian foreign minister confirmed that both Cambodian and Thai leaders will meet in Malaysia the next day for ceasefire negotiations mediated by Anwar Ibrahim.

On the evening of 28 July, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, scheduled to come into effect at midnight, thus ending the conflict. Phumtham, along with Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and General Natthaphon Narkphanit, met with Hun Manet at 3PM (UTC+8) earlier in Putrajaya in talks initiated under the mediation of Anwar, with both U.S. and Chinese envoys attending. Participating in the discussions as co-facilitators were U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan and Chinese Ambassador Ouyang Yujing.

Casualties and impact

According to sources, about 138,000 civilians living in Thailand have been evacuated, making it more than 200,000 displaced in both countries. Reports also said people are fleeing from other towns close to the border, as civilian infrastructures are targeted like hospitals and gas stations. In Cambodia, 35,000 people fled their homes.

At least 38 people were killed during the clashes. This included eight civilians and five soldiers in Cambodia, and 13 civilians including children and six soldiers in Thailand. In Cambodia, at least 50 civilians and more than 20 soldiers were injured, while in Thailand, 29 soldiers and 30 civilians were injured. On 26 July, Cambodia announced Maj. Gen. Duong Somneang, commander of the 7th Division, was killed by an artillery strike at the Chong Ta Thao–Phu Ma Kua area.

Apart from the frontline, Cambodia's Ministry of Labors and Vocational training has urged brands, buyers, and consumers of Thai products and services to pay attention to the increasing violence and harassment being suffered by Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand and play an active role in protecting the rights and well-being of migrant workers.

International reactions

Countries

Belligerents

• Cambodia: The Ministry of National Defence condemned the conflict stating it is a "brutal and illegal military aggression" by Thailand. Former prime minister and Senate president Hun Sen warned Thailand against invading Cambodia, adding that Cambodia is ready for combat and that it will strike back at Thailand if it attacks.
• Thailand: During the initial clashes, suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra condemned the Cambodian attacks on Thailand and vowed retaliation.

ASEAN member states

• Brunei: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Brunei is closely following the situation, urging both sides to display caution and participate in communication and consultations to de-escalate the crisis.
• Indonesia: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement noting that it believed that Thailand and Cambodia "would return to peaceful methods to resolve their differences". The Ministry urged both countries to settle their concerns amicably in line with the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation and the ASEAN Charter. The Government of Indonesia stated that it does not wish to interfere in the conflict and prefers to prioritize the safety of Indonesian citizens affected by the military conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.
• Laos: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced its serious worries about the current state of affairs at the Cambodia-Thailand border. It urged both parties to use caution and find a peaceful solution to the current conflict.
• Malaysia: Prime Minister and current chairman of ASEAN, Anwar Ibrahim, voiced his concern to the situation and expressed his willingness to talk with both parties to seek de-escalation and peace negotiations. He described the situation as "worrying" and stated: "I have sent messages to both prime ministers and look forward to speaking with them later today or tonight." He added, "The least we can expect is for them to stand down and hopefully try to enter into negotiation."
• Myanmar: Military spokesperson and Deputy Minister of Information, Zaw Min Tun, stated that Myanmar believes Thailand and Cambodia may find a peaceful solution to the crisis. The Myanmar Embassy to Thailand echoed this sentiment while urging their citizens to evacuate the conflict zone.
• Philippines: The Department of Foreign Affairs emphasized "the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring the de-escalation of the situation." It is hoped that the two countries would address this matter in accordance with international law and the principle of peaceful dispute resolution. In a later statement, President Bongbong Marcos said that the country is open to "assist in any way to restore peace" between the two sides.
• Singapore: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed serious concern about the skirmishes, urging both countries to display caution and cease hostilities, de-escalate tensions through diplomatic channels, and protect the safety of all civilians.
• Timor-Leste: The Council of Ministers approved a draft government resolution calling for both Cambodia and Thailand to immediately cease all hostilities and prevent the escalation of the conflict. It also expressed support for initiatives to use peaceful dispute resolution mechanisms available within ASEAN.
• Vietnam: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on both countries to exercise utmost restraint, refrain from the use of force, avoid further escalation, and to solve differences utilizing peaceful means in accordance with international laws and regional solidarity.

Elsewhere

Donald Trump

@realDonaldTrump

Just spoke to the Prime Minister of Cambodia relative to stopping the War with Thailand. I am calling the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, right now, to likewise request a Ceasefire, and END to the War, which is currently raging. We happen to be, by coincidence, currently dealing on Trade with both Countries, but do not want to make any Deal, with either Country, if they are fighting — And I have told them so! The call with Thailand is being made momentarily. The call with Cambodia has ended, but expect to call back regarding War stoppage and Ceasefire based on what Thailand has to say. I am trying to simplify a complex situation! Many people are being killed in this War, but it very much reminds me of the Conflict between Pakistan and India, which was brought to a successful halt.

26 July 2025

• Australia: A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson noted that the Australian government is "deeply concerned" about reports of combat along the Thai-Cambodian border, including bombardment of residential areas. Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged both sides to de-escalate and resolve border issues peacefully.
• Brazil: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised Brazilians to avoid going to the border until the end of hostilities and asked both countries to avoid the raise of hostilities and to find a peaceful way to solve the matter.
• Canada: Canada voiced grave concern about the clashes and reports of civilian casualties near the Thai-Cambodian border. It called on both sides to reduce hostilities and start talking in order to find a peaceful resolution.
• China: Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun expressed his concern of the development of the situation and hopes both sides can properly resolve issues through dialogue and consultations. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that the "recent conflict and casualties on the Cambodia-Thailand border are heartbreaking and concerning" and blamed the issue on the legacy of colonization and called for a "calm and proper resolution". Yi added that China supported Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) efforts to mediate and that the nation would maintain a "fair and impartial" position.
• France: The Government of France expressed its deep concern following armed clashes between Thailand and Cambodia and expressed condolences for those who were killed in the conflict. It also urged the two countries to immediately cease fighting and to resolve their differences peacefully, in accordance with international law.
• Holy See: Pope Leo XIV said prayers for those affected by the clashes.
• India: The Ministry of External Affairs announced that it is keeping a careful eye on the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border. It hoped that all parties would take efforts to end hostilities and prevent future escalation. India has since issued a travel warning to people because of the ongoing situation.
• Italy: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it is keeping an eye on the situation at the Thai-Cambodian border along with the Italian Embassy in Bangkok.
• Japan: Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya stated that the Government of Japan expressed deep concern over the clashes. He added that Japan hopes the tensions can be resolved peacefully through dialogue and urges both countries to be as restrained as possible.
• Kyrgyzstan: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it is closely monitoring developments along the Thai-Cambodian border. It expressed its hope for peace to be reached as quickly as possible between the parties.
• New Zealand: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade expressed concern over the skirmishes in an updated travel advisory. It also urged moderation, diplomacy, and communication and expressed support for ASEAN's attempts to defuse the situation.
• Norway: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed alarm over the increasing confrontation along the Thai-Cambodian border. It called for a peaceful resolution and asked both parties to refrain from hostilities.
• Russia: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova remarked that Russia is concerned about the conflict's escalation and calls on all the parties to exercise restraint and start a dialogue in order to resolve the Thai-Cambodian issues by peaceful means.
• Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia called on both parties to exercise caution, de-escalate, and settle disputes diplomatically while stating that it was monitoring the escalation of the Thai-Cambodian border.
• South Korea: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated "the government of the Republic of Korea expresses its grave concern over the military clash which has recently occurred between Thailand and Cambodia, and urges both Thailand and Cambodia to de-escalate tensions and seek a peaceful resolution of the situation through dialogue."
• Sri Lanka: The Sri Lankan government called for Cambodia and Thailand to "engage in early diplomatic dialogue aimed at resolving differences peacefully".
• Switzerland: The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs conveyed its worries about the clashes and called on all sides to stop violent conflicts right now in order to avoid further escalation.
• Ukraine: The Ukrainian Embassy in Bangkok said it is keeping a close eye on the situation. It urged Ukrainian citizens to abide by local authorities' directives and to avoid going to border regions.
• United Kingdom: Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Indo-Pacific Catherine West expressed her distress on the civilian casualties and urged both parties to exercise restraint and seek peaceful dialogue.
• United States: The U.S. embassies in Bangkok and Phnom Penh urged American citizens living or traveling near the Thailand - Cambodia border to follow directions from the respective Thai and Cambodian security services. Later, U.S. State Department spokeperson Thomas Pigott made a statement that the U.S. urges cessation of hostilities and seek peaceful solutions to the dispute.
• Uzbekistan: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made it clear that it is keeping a careful eye on events surrounding the armed conflicts along the Thai-Cambodian border. It called on all sides to respect international law and find a peaceful solution to the dispute.

Supranational organizations

• ASEAN: ASEAN Foreign Ministers collectively expressed deep concern over the situation, called both sides to cease all hostilities, strictly undertake ceasefire, and endorsed negotiations. Both Thailand and Cambodia are official members of ASEAN.
• European Union: Foreign affairs spokesperson Anouar El Anouni expressed his concern on behalf of the bloc and called for de-escalation from both sides and to resolve the conflict with peaceful dialogue.
• United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres stated that he is following with concern reports of armed clashes at the border between Cambodia and Thailand and urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint and address any issues through dialogue and in a spirit of good neighborliness, with a view to finding a lasting solution to the dispute.