Thai - Cambodia Conflict Thai-Cambodian Tensions Escalate in Media War

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This file photo released by the Royal Thai Army shows an injured Thai soldier who stepped on a landmine being airlifted to a hospital in Ubon Ratchathani province, Thailand, July 23, 2025. (The Royal Thai Army via AP, File)

 

While the Thai-Cambodian border remains calm, a heated exchange of words continues, with both nations racing for international support. Cambodia's agile media strategy gains traction, placing Thailand in a defensive position under mounting scrutiny.

 

The conflict reignited on 24 July due to Cambodia's rocket attack, which prompted Thai airstrikes. Cambodia’s media, supported by an aggressive social media campaign, made dramatic claims, including allegations of a downed Thai jet and the use of poison gas. Both allegations were quickly debunked but showcased Cambodia’s media prowess.

 

Thailand's response, which was characterised by formal and slow communication, struggled to effectively counter Cambodia's narrative. Multiple Thai agencies issued conflicting statements, which led to a perception of disorganisation. Political turbulence within Thailand further complicates its efforts to maintain a coherent narrative.

 

This turmoil intensified with a leaked conversation between Cambodia's influential former leader, Hun Sen, and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The leak revealed discussions regarding border tensions, which resulted in Paetongtarn's suspension and contributed to internal political strife in Thailand. Hun Sen, who remains a powerful figure despite stepping down, strategically used the incident to destabilise the Thai government.

 

Hun Sen’s provocative social media presence, often featuring military imagery, portrays Cambodia as an aggrieved party seeking justice. In contrast, Thailand's response is fragmented and therefore less effective. Lt. Gen Boonsin Padklang, known for his nationalism, is Thailand’s most visible defender but struggles to unite its national narrative.

 

The conflict is deeply rooted in a historical territorial dispute over the Preah Vihear temple. This symbolic site is of immense importance to both nations. Historical grievances amplify current tensions, with both countries accusing each other of using banned munitions, which complicates diplomatic solutions.

 

Cambodia has taken a proactive international stance by involving the UN Security Council and seeking the involvement of the International Court of Justice. Thailand prefers bilateral talks, wary of international tribunals due to past unfavourable outcomes. Memories of a 1962 ICJ ruling favouring Cambodia still influence Thailand's stance.

 

Beyond diplomatic efforts, military accusations add another layer to the dispute. Thailand accuses Cambodia of deploying new landmines along the border, violating international conventions, writes Jonathan Head for the BBC.

 

This accusation challenges Cambodia’s global reputation, given its history as one of the most mined nations. To substantiate its claims, Thailand presented evidence to diplomats and journalists, increasing international scrutiny.

 

Cambodia, in turn, has accused Thailand of using cluster munitions and white phosphorus, igniting further humanitarian concerns. This tit-for-tat exchange deepens the divide, with both nations drawing on historical narratives to justify their actions. The relentless back-and-forth diminishes prospects for peaceful resolution.

 

The economic impact is significant, as thousands of Cambodian migrant workers leave Thailand amid rising nationalism. This workforce exit threatens economic stability in both countries, presenting a substantial challenge to regional peace.

 

For Hun Sen and his successor, Hun Manet, this conflict is an opportunity to rally domestic support by presenting themselves as defenders of Cambodian sovereignty. Conversely, the Thai government confronts a challenging environment, navigating external relations and internal unity amid ongoing economic and political crises.

 

The ongoing war of words highlights deep-seated historical issues between Thailand and Cambodia. Each nation’s narrative reflects broader regional tensions, which are hindering diplomatic efforts. As both countries contend with nationalist fervour and international pressures, achieving resolution remains a complex task.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-21

 

[hotchilli]

Stop reading the media... easy.

[soalbundy]

The whole world is going mad at the moment so why not here as well.