New York, December 13, 2025
Renewed border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand continue despite a ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged both nations to honor the truce amid escalating military confrontations along their disputed frontier this December.
Escalation Despite Ceasefire
Combat along the Cambodia-Thailand border reignited in early December 2025 following an initial ceasefire agreed on July 28, after clashes starting July 24. On December 7, fighting broke out with a brief skirmish, quickly escalating to intensified ground offensives and F-16 airstrikes conducted by Thai forces on December 8 targeting Cambodian positions.
Amid these operations, Thailand launched “Operation Sattawa” on December 10, with the Royal Thai Army seizing multiple northern Cambodian localities in Preah Vihear province. Captured areas include An Ses, the historic Tamoan Thom temple, and the 5 Makara zone.
At approximately 5:04 a.m. UTC on December 13, Thai forces reportedly opened fire on Cambodian positions. While Cambodia denied provoking or retaliating, Thailand accused Cambodian troops of using heavy weapons such as PHL-03 multiple rocket launchers, further intensifying tensions.
U.S. Diplomatic Intervention
President Trump has publicly called on Cambodia and Thailand to uphold the ceasefire he brokered, underscoring the need to prevent further violations. This intervention is part of broader U.S. engagement aimed at promoting stability in Southeast Asia, particularly following the joint Cambodia-Thailand Declaration signed on October 26, 2025, seeking a peaceful resolution to border disputes.
Humanitarian Toll
The conflict has inflicted serious humanitarian consequences. Cambodian sources report that Thai shelling between December 8 and 9 resulted in seven civilian deaths and injuries to 20 others. Thailand’s deployment of tanks and coordinated airstrikes has further compounded civilian risks. Evacuations have taken place in Cambodia’s Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, while damage to houses, schools, and hospitals has been reported on both sides of the border.
Background to the Dispute
The border dispute centers largely around the Preah Vihear province, including areas near the Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region has historically been contested, with sovereignty claims sparking periodic clashes. The ceasefire brokered in July and subsequent diplomatic efforts have aimed to curtail hostilities, but persistent disagreements and military maneuvers continue to fuel instability.
Implications for Regional Stability
These developments threaten to destabilize the region further, posing challenges for diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation in Southeast Asia. Thailand’s recent territorial gains and Cambodia’s vehement condemnation of what it terms “inhuman” attacks highlight the fragility of peace efforts.
As both nations navigate this volatile situation, sustained international diplomatic engagement and adherence to ceasefire commitments remain critical to preventing a broader escalation.
The situation is ongoing, with no confirmed resolution as of December 13, 2025. Stakeholders across the region and international observers continue to monitor developments closely.