People on both sides of the border share a cultural heritage much older than modern nation-states, dating back to the ancient Khmer civilization.

The tank screeches as it rolls into the ad-hoc military base before four battle-weary soldiers jump out to re-inspect the hefty vehicle.

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia that broke out on Thursday, July 24, 2025 along 12 locations along the border has claimed the lives of 33 people.

Tensions have bubbled between the two neighbors for months, flaring on Thursday as Cambodia and Thailand exchanged fire.

Fighting continued between Thailand and Cambodia in a border dispute despite the prime ministers agreeing to a cease-fire in calls with President Donald Trump.

While long-standing border disputes explain some of the current violence between Thailand and Cambodia, the conflict’s escalation is primarily driven by Thai elites’ drive to consolidate military

The Thai warning came as the U.S. expressed its grave concern about the most serious fighting in years between the Southeast Asian neighbors. The U.S. and China compete for influence in fast-growing Southeast Asia, and both have good relations with Thailand and Cambodia.

Of course, trouble at the 508-mile (817 km) shared border is nothing new. For over a century, Thailand and Cambodia have contested sovereignty at various undemarcated points in the thick jungle punctuated with culturally-significant temples albeit with scant strategic or economic value.

I am calling the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, right now, to likewise request a Ceasefire, and END to the War, which is currently raging,” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Saturday The US is currently engaged in trade negotiations with both nations,