Tensions flare in Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Thailand exchange fire; border crossings closed

Tensions flared again on the Thai-Cambodian border as both sides exchanged fire in a disputed zone this week, according to Cambodia’s ministry. The renewed hostilities came after a Thai soldier was seriously injured by a landmine blast, prompting Thailand to expel the Cambodian ambassador and close several northeastern border crossings.

In retaliation, Cambodia downgraded diplomatic ties, ordering all Thai diplomatic staff to leave and recalling its own from Bangkok. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said the explosion occurred within Cambodian territory, blaming Thailand for violating a 2000 agreement on patrol routes.

The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations since May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed in disputed territory. Thailand alleged that new Russian-made mines had been laid in areas previously deemed safe, accusing Cambodia of breaching the Ottawa Treaty, which bans anti-personnel mines. Cambodia dismissed these claims as “baseless”.

Relations have sharply deteriorated, with both sides imposing trade bans and travel restrictions. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is under growing domestic pressure, further complicated by a leaked call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.