Overview
This lecture discusses the recent escalation of armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, focusing on historical border disputes, recent military clashes, and the political fallout from a leaked diplomatic phone call.
Origins of the Conflict
- Both Thai and Cambodian militaries accuse each other of starting the recent fighting.
- Conflict began near a Hindu temple on the disputed Thai-Cambodian border.
- Each side claims the other opened fire first, using heavy weapons and drones.
Historical Context & Border Dispute
- The Thai-Cambodian border is 817 km long and not clearly demarcated in some regions.
- Cambodia’s claim over the temple is based on early 1900s French colonial maps.
- Thailand disputes these maps and has maintained de facto control over the site.
- The temple holds religious significance for both countries, especially the old Khmer Empire.
- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) awarded temple areas to Cambodia in the 1960s, but Thailand stopped recognizing the ICJ’s authority.
Recent Military Escalation
- Multiple contested border areas are now active conflict zones.
- Cambodia has fired rockets and artillery into Thailand; Thailand has conducted airstrikes.
- At least 11 Thai civilians have died in the latest clashes.
- Landmines in disputed zones have recently injured Thai soldiers, both sides blame each other for the new mines.
Economic and Diplomatic Retaliations
- Thailand cut off cross-border electricity transfers; Cambodia responded with bans on Thai imports.
- Both sides have closed border crossings and implemented further trade restrictions.
The Leaked Phone Call and Political Crisis
- Thai PM Shinawatra called Cambodian leader Hun Sen to deescalate tensions.
- Parts of the call were leaked by Hun Sen, showing Shinawatra expressing sympathy and criticizing her own military.
- The leak caused public outrage in Thailand, government instability, and Shinawatra’s suspension.
- Thai leadership now faces pressure to respond firmly, reducing room for compromise.
Ongoing Tensions & Outlook
- Diplomatic relations are downgraded, and both countries warn of possible conflict escalation.
- Experts believe all-out war is unlikely but worry about lack of leadership to deescalate.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Border dispute — Disagreement over the precise location of the official border between countries.
- De facto control — Actual, practical control over an area regardless of legal recognition.
- ICJ (International Court of Justice) — UN court that settles disputes between countries.
- Landmine — Explosive device placed on or under the ground, often remaining after conflicts.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the history of the Thai-Cambodian border and the role of the ICJ.
- Read more about the significance of the Preah Vihear temple to both countries.