"Cambodia is deemed unreliable, according to the head of the Second Army Area, potentially indicating an increase in border conflicts."
The ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia continue to pose a significant threat, with the situation remaining highly volatile and prone to armed clashes. The latest escalation occurred in late July 2025, near Ta Moan Thom temple, involving heavy fighting, resulting in over 30 deaths and large-scale evacuations on both sides.
Although a ceasefire was agreed upon on July 28, breaches have continued to occur. As of late August 2025, tensions have escalated again, with Cambodia reportedly mobilizing civilians near the border at Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo Province, leading to violent confrontations with Thai soldiers.
The root causes of these tensions date back to colonial-era treaties and the control of culturally and strategically important sites such as Preah Vihear and Ta Moan Thom temples. Political factors also play a significant role, with entrenched dynastic rivalries in both countries apparently using the border conflict to consolidate domestic power and advance strategic interests.
Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, Second Army Area commander, has warned of the potential for further clashes. He stated that there is a 50-50 chance of Cambodian troops restarting border clashes with Thailand. Boonsin also stated that the Thai armed forces are fully prepared to engage in peace talks with Cambodia or escalate to another conflict if provoked.
Boonsin, while chairing a ceremony to distribute aid to troops injured during last month's border clashes with Cambodia, warned Phumtham Wechayachai that Cambodia cannot be trusted in the context of the border tensions. He stated, "as we know well, there is nothing we can trust in Cambodia."
The ceremony, held at the National Defence College, saw several private firms and organizations donating essential items for use at the frontlines. The event was intended to provide support for the troops at the frontlines.
Boonsin, however, declined to speculate on his successor as the Second Army Area commander, mentioning that everything related to his successor will depend on his superiors and destiny.
Despite the ongoing tensions, there appears to be unity between Thai citizens and the military in defending the country's 1,000-kilometre border with Cambodia.
The potential implications of these ongoing tensions are concerning. They include continued militarization of the border region, escalation of civilian involvement, nationalistic sentiment, humanitarian crises, and difficulty in achieving durable peace without addressing underlying political and territorial disputes.
Without substantive diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution, the border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia are likely to persist and may lead to further violent clashes with destabilizing regional consequences.
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