Why it matters:
The resurgence of military conflict between two ASEAN members, both close partners of China, threatens regional stability, disrupts economic cooperation, and revives decades-old territorial disputes, especially around UNESCO heritage zones.
The big picture:
The conflict erupted near Surin Province in Thailand and Oddar Meanchey Province in Cambodia, adjacent to several ancient temples. Both sides blame each other for initiating the attacks.
What he’s saying:
Wang Wenbin, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson:
“Beijing is deeply concerned about the current developments and urges both parties to resolve their issues through dialogue and consultation. China maintains a fair and impartial stance and is willing to play a constructive role in promoting peace.”
He emphasized that both nations are not only China's neighbors and ASEAN members but also “important friends” whose peaceful coexistence serves their long-term interests.
Key points:
- Thailand reportedly used F-16 fighter jets to strike Cambodian military targets.
- Cambodia retaliated with rockets and artillery shells, some of which hit Thai civilian areas.
- A Cambodian shell struck a home in Thailand, killing one civilian and injuring three others, including a five-year-old child.
- Thailand’s Health Ministry confirmed at least 12 deaths in recent clashes.
- Thailand has advised its citizens to leave Cambodia immediately if necessary.
Between the lines:
Diplomatic ties have deteriorated in recent weeks.
Thailand expelled Cambodia’s ambassador and recalled its envoy from Phnom Penh.
Cambodia responded by downgrading diplomatic relations and withdrawing most of its diplomats from Thailand.
Go deeper:
This conflict is rooted in long-standing territorial disputes, most notably around the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2013, the International Court of Justice awarded sovereignty over the site to Cambodia, a ruling that remains contested in nationalist circles in Thailand.
Recent tensions have also been fueled by border restrictions and trade suspensions between the two nations.
Hossein Vaez - Hossein Vaez
