Tension between Thailand–Cambodia exploded again this week over their long-disputed border near the Preah Vihear Temple. Cambodia fired rockets into Thai territory, killing at least 11 civilians. Thailand responded by sending F-16 fighter jets and shutting down all border crossings. The spark came after Thai soldiers were killed by landmines in a contested zone. Thailand blamed Cambodia for planting them. Cambodia denied it. Within hours, both sides opened fire. Civilians were caught in the crossfire as the Thailand–Cambodia war escalated rapidly.
Old Temple Dispute
Thailand and Cambodia both claimed the land around the Preah Vihear Temple. In 1962, a court gave it to Cambodia, but Thailand never fully accepted the ruling. In May, a Cambodian soldier died in a border clash, which reignited tensions. Both countries sent more troops to the area. Then, landmines injured Thai soldiers. Thailand blamed Cambodia. In response, both sides expelled diplomats and blocked trade. The standoff quickly turned into a direct military conflict.
