Tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border have escalated once again, with Cambodia’s defence ministry accusing Thailand of bombing the casino hub of Poipet, a bustling municipality in northwestern Cambodia that serves as a major crossing point between the two nations. According to the ministry, Thai forces reportedly “dropped 2 bombs” in Poipet at around 11 a.m. local time (04:00 GMT) on Thursday. Poipet is known for its casinos, which attract many Thai gamblers, and is a critical economic hub in the region.
While Thailand has yet to confirm the reported strikes, Cambodia’s interior ministry revealed that at least four casinos have already suffered damage due to Thai military actions. The renewed clashes between the two Southeast Asian neighbours this month have so far claimed at least 21 lives in Thailand and 17 in Cambodia, while roughly 800,000 people have been displaced amid the violence.
The conflict has also left thousands stranded. Thai authorities reported that between 5,000 and 6,000 Thai nationals remain stuck in Poipet following Cambodia’s decision to close its land border crossings, a move described by the Cambodian interior ministry as a “necessary measure” to protect civilians. Air travel remains an alternative for those seeking to leave the region.
Efforts at peace have repeatedly faltered. Earlier this year, five days of fighting in July left dozens dead before a truce was brokered by the United States, China, and Malaysia — only to collapse within months. Recently, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that a new ceasefire had been agreed upon, but Bangkok quickly denied this, and military engagements involving artillery, tanks, drones, and jets have continued unabated.
The roots of the conflict trace back to a long-standing territorial dispute over colonial-era border demarcations spanning the 800 km (500-mile) frontier, including a number of ancient temple ruins. Both Cambodia and Thailand have blamed each other for initiating the renewed hostilities, with accusations of attacks on civilians exchanged amid the military escalations.
In response to the ongoing crisis, China announced that it would send its special envoy for Asian affairs to both Cambodia and Thailand for a “shuttle-diplomacy trip” aimed at bridging differences and restoring peace in the region.
As tensions persist, the border area remains highly volatile, with civilians caught in the crossfire and international attention focusing on diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.