What in the World Why Cambodia and Thailand are fighting
Dec 10, 2025
Panisa Amosha, a BBC reporter based in Bangkok, delves into the humanitarian crisis resulting from escalating clashes between Cambodia and Thailand. Over half a million people have been displaced due to ongoing conflicts over the border, exacerbated by a fragile ceasefire. Panisa highlights the dire conditions in evacuation centers and the struggles of families affected by the violence. She shares powerful stories from evacuees, offering insight into their lost livelihoods and the challenges faced in their search for safety amid geopolitical tensions.
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Historical Borders Fuel Modern Tensions
- Colonial-era border decisions still drive modern hostility along the 800km Thailand–Cambodia boundary.
- Recurring clashes reflect long-running territorial and political tensions rather than a single recent trigger.
July Landmine Blast Sparked Renewed War
- The July fighting began after Thai soldiers were injured by landmines and escalated into deadly clashes.
- A fragile ceasefire followed but did not resolve underlying grievances, so violence resumed.
Military Escalation And Mass Displacement
- Recent exchanges include thousands of Cambodian rockets and Thai airstrikes, plus import bans and travel restrictions.
- The escalation has displaced more than half a million people across both countries.