Thailand, July24,2025:Amid the Thailand–Cambodia clash, Thailand’s Education Minister ordered the closure of 582 schools in Surin, Sisaket, and Buri Ram provinces.
Overview of the Thailand–Cambodia clash
The Thailand–Cambodia clash erupted on July 24, 2025, igniting a severe escalation along the contested border. A volley of gunfire, rocket strikes, artillery shelling, and airpower jolted the peace along an 800 km frontier. The clash began near the historic Ta Muen Thom/Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple, quickly spreading into residential and strategic zones.
Military exchanges and airstrikes
The clash saw heavy exchanges of artillery and rockets alongside a bold escalation: Thai F‑16 jets launched strikes on Cambodian positions.
- Thailand reported 6 F‑16s engaged, successfully hitting military targets, while Cambodia alleged one jet was downed.
- Rocket and artillery fire from both sides struck areas near villages and vital installations, like a gas station in Sisaket.
Schools shut down in border zones
Amid the Thailand–Cambodia clash, Thailand’s Education Minister ordered the closure of 582 schools in Surin, Sisaket, and Buri Ram provinces.
- These schools also became temporary shelters, offering protection amid shelling.
- The closures reflect alarming escalation, disrupting daily life and education for thousands.
Civilian impact and displacement
The violence has taken a heavy human toll:
- At least 11 Thai civilians, including an 8‑year‑old child, were confirmed killed; 14+ injured.
- Around 40,000 civilians have fled 86 border villages to safer areas.
- Fires broke out at a gas station near Sisaket, and a hospital was reportedly struck—potentially a war crime.
Diplomatic rifts and regional backlash
The Thailand–Cambodia clash has triggered a full-scale diplomatic breakdown:
- Both nations expelled each other’s ambassadors, sealed border crossings, and downgraded relations.
- Cambodia has appealed to the UN Security Council, while China and ASEAN’s chair (Malaysia) urge restraint and dialogue.
- China offered mediation; Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim is brokering talks.
Broader historical and political context
a) Century‑old border dispute
- The root is a 1907 French‑era map and recurring skirmishes near the Preah Vihear temple.
- A 1962 ICJ ruling favored Cambodia, reaffirmed in 2013; nonetheless, disputes persist.
b) Recent escalations
- Tensions flared earlier in February (anthem incident at Ta Muen Thom), again on May 28 amid soldier deaths.
- Thailand closed checkpoints in June; Cambodia reciprocated with fuel bans and border restrictions.
c) Domestic political fallout
- Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces suspension and ethics probes after a controversial call with former Cambodian PM Hun Sen—straining domestic political stability.
Expert viewpoints & international response
Diplomatic analysts note:
- China’s Foreign Ministry calls for dialogue, positioning itself as an impartial mediator.
- Malaysia’s PM urges peace: “peace is the only option”.
- UNICEF expresses deep concern over the civilian casualties and school closures.
Regional watchers warn:
- ASEAN’s unity is threatened unless swift de-escalation occurs.
- The landmine allegations, heritage site proximity, and reciprocal military actions signal a dangerous opportunity for wider escalation.
Looking ahead: De‑escalation or escalation?
Key possible outcomes post–Thailand–Cambodia clash:
- Negotiated ceasefire: ASEAN-led diplomacy and UN appeals could halt further military action.
- Protracted low-level conflict: Border tension may persist with sporadic artillery and mine-related injuries.
- Political pressure in Thailand: PM Paetongtarn’s suspended status may lead to leadership shifts, influencing policy.
- ICJ proceedings: Cambodia’s legal appeal may return the dispute to international courts, though Thailand has historically rejected this route.
