A team of military personnel from ASEAN visits the border region
Tensions Remain High in Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute
The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, particularly in the area around Chong Arn Ma in Ubon Ratchathani province, remains volatile and unresolved as of mid-2025. This conflict, with roots dating back over a century, has escalated in recent months, leading to military clashes and diplomatic strains.
Current Situation
In late July 2025, fighting intensified around Chong Arn Ma, with incidents such as landmines injuring Thai soldiers. This area, like several others along the border, lacks clear demarcation. The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, displaced civilians, and caused operational challenges for border management, with checkpoints near the Cambodian frontier being closed indefinitely.
Diplomatic relations have deteriorated, with recalled ambassadors and a downgrade to chargé d'affaires level. However, there have been attempts at dialogue and ceasefire agreements brokered through ASEAN and international pressure.
Historical Context
The border dispute stems from colonial-era boundaries drawn by the French during their occupation of Cambodia. Areas near ancient Khmer temples, such as Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom, have repeatedly caused military and diplomatic tensions. The border around Ubon Ratchathani, including Chong Arn Ma, is part of undemarcated zones where sovereignty and territorial claims overlap, leading to recurring clashes.
Political factors further complicate the issue, with nationalist sentiments on both sides and political rivalries influencing conflict dynamics.
Outlook
ASEAN and the United Nations have called for immediate ceasefires and diplomatic negotiations. Despite official ceasefires agreed upon in late July 2025, trust remains low, and enforcement hinges on the cooperation of local military forces.
Both countries have yet to accept international arbitration, preferring bilateral mechanisms, which complicates permanent resolution. Areas like Chong Arn Ma in Ubon Ratchathani remain sensitive flashpoints amid ongoing local military presence and checkpoint closures.
Recent Developments
Recently, Thailand is hosting an Interim Observer Team (IOT) of ASEAN military observers in Ubon Ratchathani province. The team visited Chong Arn Ma on the second day of their two-day visit to assess the situation and investigate reports of Cambodian forces cutting through barbed wire. This action is considered a breach of the ceasefire agreement and a threat to bilateral trust.
Acting Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit played down Cambodia's dissatisfaction and attempted obstruction of the IOT's inspection. He suggested establishing a mechanism that allows both sides to conduct joint inspections for transparency and sincerity.
During the visit, a Cambodian soldier attempted to obstruct the field visit. The IOT, led by Maj Gen Shamsul Rizal bin Musa, Malaysia's assistant defence attaché to Thailand, played down the incident, emphasising the importance of maintaining neutrality and credibility.
Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Region, dismissed these claims as posturing on Cambodia's part and asserted Thailand's right to lead delegations into its own territory. The team comprises 14 military attachés and representatives from eight ASEAN member countries.
The Cambodian side of the border previously hosted a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) camp, which has since been converted into a casino complex. Shops in the vicinity had suffered past damage from clashes, including explosions and fire.
In conclusion, the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, particularly around Chong Arn Ma in Ubon Ratchathani province, continues to pose significant challenges. Despite ongoing efforts for dialogue and ceasefire agreements, trust remains low, and the situation remains tense.
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