Thailand Could Have Destroyed Cambodia. Here's Why it Didn't.

Summary

After five days of intense fighting along their shared border, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a full, unconditional ceasefire following diplomatic talks in Malaysia. The conflict, sparked by longstanding territorial disputes and political tensions, saw heavy casualties, civilian displacement, and significant military engagements, highlighting Thailand's overwhelming military advantage. While Cambodia struggled against a better-equipped opponent, international pressure, particularly from the U.S. and regional actors, helped broker peace. Both nations can now claim political victories, but the imbalance in power and nationalist pressures suggest the region remains fragile, leaving open the potential for future tensions despite the temporary reprieve.

Takeaways

• 🕊️ Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a full and unconditional ceasefire after five days of intense border conflict.
• 🌏 The ceasefire was mediated in Malaysia, with involvement from American and Chinese diplomats, and pressure from the international community.
• ⚔️ The conflict began due to a long-standing border dispute, exacerbated by a deadly encounter in May and rising nationalist tensions on both sides.
• 💥 Hostilities included air strikes, rocket attacks, and ground assaults, resulting in civilian and military casualties, and the evacuation of over 200,000 people.
• 📉 Cambodia's military is significantly weaker than Thailand's in terms of troop numbers, equipment, and air and naval capabilities.
• ✈️ Thailand's air force maintained complete air supremacy, while Cambodian forces relied on small drones and point-and-shoot anti-aircraft guns.
• 🛡️ The Thai military demonstrated modern training and efficiency, whereas Cambodian forces appeared poorly equipped for sustained conflict.
• 🤝 Despite Thailand's military advantage, the ceasefire was influenced by international trade and diplomatic pressure, particularly from the United States and Malaysia.
• 🏛️ Thailand's military and monarchy maintain strong domestic influence, and the brief conflict reinforced their position and nationalist pride.
• ⚠️ The conflict highlights how quickly border disputes can escalate into violence and how power imbalances influence both the outbreak and resolution of war.
• 📝 Officially, 34 people were confirmed dead, including civilians from both nations, but actual casualties may be higher due to limited third-party reporting.
• 🌐 Cambodia has historically sought international intervention to protect itself, while Thailand prefers direct bilateral negotiations due to its military advantage.

Q & A

What triggered the recent conflict between Thailand and Cambodia?

The conflict was triggered by a May border firefight in which a Cambodian soldier was killed, followed by political missteps by Thai leaders and escalating nationalist tensions, including a landmine explosion injuring Thai soldiers.

How long did the Thailand–Cambodia conflict last?

The conflict lasted 5 days, from July 24 to July 27, 2025.

What military actions were taken by both sides during the conflict?

Thailand conducted airstrikes using F-16s and Gripens, deployed ground troops and the navy, while Cambodia used multiple rocket launchers and small drones. Both sides engaged in direct assaults and artillery exchanges.

How many people were confirmed dead and injured during the conflict?

34 people were confirmed dead, including 8 Cambodian civilians, 13 Thai civilians, and 1 Cambodian general. Dozens more civilians and soldiers were reported wounded.

Approximately how many people were displaced during the conflict?

Around 200,000 people were temporarily evacuated from the border zones on both sides.

Why was Cambodia at a significant military disadvantage compared to Thailand?

Thailand has far superior numbers, equipment, and training, including modern tanks, aircraft, and naval vessels, while Cambodia's military is smaller, under-equipped, lacks fixed-wing combat aircraft, and relies on international intervention for protection.

What role did international mediation play in ending the conflict?

The ceasefire was mediated in Malaysia by the Malaysian Prime Minister, with involvement from US and Chinese diplomats. International pressure, including the prospect of trade leverage from the US, influenced Thailand to agree to the ceasefire.

Why did Thailand agree to a ceasefire despite its military advantage?

Thailand agreed due to international diplomatic pressure, economic concerns with the US, and domestic political considerations. The ceasefire allowed the Thai military to assert dominance while maintaining political stability at home.

What were some of the key territorial and political disputes between the two nations?

Thailand and Cambodia have long-standing border disputes dating back to Cambodia's independence, with both nations claiming certain border territories. Nationalist sentiment and political missteps exacerbated tensions.

What implications does this conflict have for the future of Southeast Asia?

The conflict demonstrates Thailand's regional military dominance and Cambodia's reliance on diplomacy. While both nations currently have incentives to maintain peace, Thailand could restart hostilities if it perceives a strategic benefit. The situation underscores the fragility of regional stability.

How did the conflict affect civilian areas?

Civilians were affected by artillery and rocket attacks, including a gas station and an elementary school. Both nations allegedly targeted cultural and civilian sites, resulting in casualties and mass evacuations.

What military lessons were revealed by this 5-day conflict?

The conflict highlighted the vast disparity between Thailand and Cambodia, with Thailand's well-trained, modern military easily outperforming Cambodia's under-equipped forces. It also emphasized Cambodia's reliance on small drones and international diplomacy due to military weakness.