Thailand-Cambodia clash over Shiva temple escalates amid renewed border tensions
Ta Muen Thom, Thailand–Cambodia Border — July 24, 2025 — Armed clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces have reignited a longstanding border dispute near the Ta Muen Thom and Ta Moan Thom temples, a culturally sensitive region that has seen intermittent tension since the early 2000s.
According to Thai military officials, the most recent escalation began earlier this week after surveillance teams observed what they described as unauthorized movement of Cambodian soldiers and drone activity near a Thai border outpost. In response, the Royal Thai Air Force launched limited airstrikes as part of a defensive measure. Cambodia has accused Thailand of conducting unauthorized military operations on its side of the border.
The fighting has reportedly resulted in at least a dozen casualties and the displacement of more than 130,000 civilians, though neither government has confirmed exact figures. Local aid agencies report that cross-border shelling continued into Tuesday morning, damaging infrastructure and prompting evacuations across several districts.
The contested area — located along the Dangrek mountain range — includes several ancient Hindu temples, most notably the Preah Vihear temple complex, which the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favor of Cambodia in 1962. However, the precise demarcation of the surrounding territory has remained a point of disagreement between the two governments.
While Thailand maintains that its military presence is limited to historically Thai-controlled areas, Cambodian officials contend that recent incursions represent a breach of international rulings.
“We remain committed to protecting our sovereignty while seeking a diplomatic solution,”
said Cambodian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Chum Saphorn in a televised briefing on Wednesday.
The Thai Foreign Ministry has urged a return to bilateral dialogue but expressed concern over what it called “provocative military activity” near civilian areas.
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