THAILAND - KAMBOJA MENUJU PERANG? Baku Tembak Mematikan Di Perbatasan! Panas! | Learning By Googling

Summary

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia over the Pravihar Temple have escalated due to a long-standing border dispute. Despite a 1962 ICJ ruling favoring Cambodia, the conflict intensified when Cambodia registered the temple as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. Recent clashes, including a May 2025 gunfight, reflect the unresolved territorial issues and nationalistic sentiments. Economic disruptions, especially in cross-border trade, have worsened the situation. While diplomatic talks are ongoing, the conflict's deep-rooted colonial legacy, military stand-offs, and regional implications leave the dispute poised for potential escalation unless a peaceful resolution is reached.

Takeaways

• 😀 The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia centers around a border dispute, particularly over the Preah Vihear Temple, a site with historical and national significance.
• 😀 The International Court of Justice ruled in 1962 that the Preah Vihear Temple belongs to Cambodia, but Thailand does not recognize the ruling due to disagreements over the map used for the decision.
• 😀 The recent escalation of tensions in May 2025 was triggered by Cambodia's construction of a defense trench on a disputed hill, leading to a gunfight between Thai and Cambodian soldiers.
• 😀 Both countries have conflicting narratives about the May 2025 shootout, with Cambodia accusing Thailand of an unprovoked attack, while Thailand claims it was acting in self-defense.
• 😀 Despite the conflict, both countries have agreed to meet for negotiations in June 2025 to attempt to reach a peaceful resolution regarding the disputed border.
• 😀 Nationalism plays a major role in the conflict, with both countries deeply invested in the belief that the disputed territory belongs to them.
• 😀 The economic impact of the conflict is significant, with disruptions to cross-border trade causing delays and increased costs for local businesses, particularly SMEs.
• 😀 ASEAN, as a regional organization, has remained passive so far, though it has historically played a role in mediating similar conflicts between member states.
• 😀 The conflict highlights the lasting effects of colonial-era border maps, with disputes arising over maps drawn by French colonial rulers that were never accepted by Thailand.
• 😀 Social media is amplifying the tensions, with misinformation and provocative content stoking anger and nationalism on both sides, complicating efforts for peace.

Q & A

What is the root cause of the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia?

The root cause of the conflict lies in a long-standing border dispute, particularly around the Preah Vihear Temple, which is located on a cliff in Cambodia but is more easily accessible from the Thai side.

How did the International Court of Justice rule on the ownership of the Preah Vihear Temple?

In 1962, the International Court of Justice ruled that the Preah Vihear Temple belonged to Cambodia. However, this decision has been contested by many in Thailand, leading to continued dissatisfaction.

Why did the conflict escalate in 2008?

The conflict escalated in 2008 after Cambodia registered the Preah Vihear Temple as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which Thailand opposed, as the border dispute had not been fully resolved.

What was the role of the 2000 border MOU in the conflict?

The 2000 border MOU stipulated that both countries should maintain the status quo regarding their border, meaning neither could build permanent structures or claim territory. Cambodia's actions violated this agreement, particularly with the construction of a defense trench in 2025.

What happened during the May 2025 gunfight between Thailand and Cambodia?

In May 2025, a gunfight broke out between Thai and Cambodian soldiers after Cambodia began constructing a defense trench on a disputed hill. The confrontation lasted for about 10 minutes, and one Cambodian soldier was killed.

What were the differing accounts of the May 2025 gunfight?

Thailand claimed they were responding to gunfire from the Cambodian army, while Cambodia accused Thailand of attacking without provocation. Both sides presented conflicting versions of the incident.

What steps were taken after the May 2025 gunfight to ease tensions?

Military commanders from both countries met at the conflict site and agreed to retreat from the firefight zone. They also emphasized strengthening communication, though Cambodia later stated they would not retreat from the disputed area.

How has the conflict affected the economies of both countries?

The conflict has disrupted trade, particularly in border areas such as Ubon Ratchathani and Sisaket in Thailand, leading to delays in exports and increased logistics costs. Local businesses, especially MSMEs, have been severely impacted.

What role does ASEAN play in resolving the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia?

ASEAN typically follows a principle of non-intervention but can act as a mediator if conflicts escalate. However, ASEAN's ability to take firm action is limited, as decisions require consensus among member states, making intervention difficult.

Why do both countries continue to reject international arbitration in this dispute?

Both Thailand and Cambodia have rejected international arbitration, with Thailand especially refusing to bring the case back to the International Court of Justice due to perceived bias. Instead, they prefer bilateral negotiations to resolve the dispute.