Cambodia's Stance on Thailand Border Dispute: A Timeline of Tensions

Strategic Insights -

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, in a high-level briefing with foreign ambassadors, addressed the ongoing border dispute with Thailand, emphasizing Cambodia's commitment to peace and its defensive measures in response to recent tensions. The briefing, held on June 17, 2025, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Phnom Penh, highlighted the increasing severity of the conflict and the steps Cambodia has taken to protect its sovereignty.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident on May 28, 2025, when Thai troops allegedly crossed into Cambodian territory and opened fire on a Cambodian army post, resulting in the death of Cambodian soldier Suon Rorn, is a critical point of contention.
  • Cambodia has accused Thailand of escalating unilateral actions, including restricting border gate hours, threatening to cut off internet services and electricity supply, and constituting acts of provocation and intimidation.
  • The Royal Government of Cambodia has adopted a series of defensive measures, including military, diplomatic, legal, and administrative actions such as the closure of Daung border crossing, suspension of purchasing internet bandwidth from Thailand, and heightened readiness to safeguard Cambodia's sovereignty.
  • Cambodia has informed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) of its intention to file a case regarding the border dispute with Thailand, contesting areas including the Mom Bei area and temple complexes of Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch and Ta Krabei.
  • Cambodia's Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Ms. Kimsour Sovannary, delivered a letter to the ICJ on June 16, 2025, formally announcing Cambodia's intention to seek justice, accuracy, and clarity in the resolution of the border dispute.

Statistics:

  • One Cambodian soldier, Suon Rorn, died as a result of the May 28, 2025 incursion.
  • Cambodia has restricted its border gate hours, suspending an unknown number of internet bandwidth purchases from Thailand, and implemented heightened readiness measures to safeguard its sovereignty.
  • The Royal Government of Cambodia has taken diplomatic and administrative actions to address the situation, including the closure of Daung border crossing and suspension of Thai film screening.

Sources:

  • Agence Kampuchea Presse, "H.E. Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn Briefs Foreign Ambassadors on Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute." 17 Jun 2025.
  • Multiple sources cited in the original text, mentioned by name and title as they appeared in the original material.