Thailand-Cambodia Conflict 2025: Human Impact, Travel Safety and Tourism Consequences
In July 2025, a long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia escalated into the most violent clash in over a decade, causing dozens of deaths, mass evacuations, and major concerns for travelers.
Thailand-Cambodia Leaders Meet in Kuala Lumpur for ASEAN-Mediated Talks
On July 28, 2025, Thai interim Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai met with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Kuala Lumpur. The goal: secure an immediate ceasefire following deadly border clashes. Malaysia, holding the rotating presidency of ASEAN, is mediating the talks.
Tensions remain high. Both sides accuse each other of violating prior agreements and lacking good faith.
Timeline of Recent Clashes Along the Thailand-Cambodia Border
The violence flared on July 24, when a Cambodian rocket hit a gas station in Si Saket, Thailand, killing eight civilians. In response, Thailand launched airstrikes on Cambodian military targets.
Skirmishes spread across 250 km of border territory, including Surin, Si Saket, Ubon Ratchathani, and the remote Emerald Triangle near Laos.
Historical Roots of the Thailand-Cambodia Border Dispute
This is not a new conflict. The tension centers on several Khmer temple sites, notably:
- Preah Vihear, which the International Court of Justice (ICJ) awarded to Cambodia in 1962 and 2013.
- In 2025, Cambodia reopened claims over four more disputed sites, triggering political backlash in Thailand.
The dispute is fuelled by colonial-era border maps, contested sovereignty, and nationalist rhetoric on both sides.
Why the 2025 Border Conflict Is Unprecedented in Military Intensity
This round of conflict is unlike previous incidents:
- Rocket attacks on civilian areas by Cambodian forces (BM‑21 rocket launchers),
- Thai fighter jets (F‑16s) conducting precision airstrikes,
- Use of newly-laid landmines, a possible breach of the Ottawa Treaty,
- Temple closures, fencing, and large-scale troop deployments.
This dramatic escalation surprised regional observers and the international community.
Human Cost of the Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: Deaths and Displacement
Civilian and Military Casualties on Both Sides
The conflict has so far caused at least 34 fatalities:
- 21 Thai deaths (14 civilians, 7 military),
- 13 Cambodian deaths (8 civilians, 5 military).
Injuries on both sides number in the dozens, with many serious cases.
Over 200,000 Displaced Along the Border
More than 200,000 people have fled the conflict zones:
- About 138,000 displaced Thais,
- Over 80,000 Cambodians evacuated from nearby provinces.
Temporary shelters and aid efforts are underway, but conditions remain unstable.
Economic Impact of the Conflict: Trade Disruption and Tourism Decline
Local Economies in Border Regions Face Stagnation
Trade has slowed significantly in affected provinces. Key border crossings are closed, and cross-border logistics have halted. Small businesses are suffering, particularly in agriculture and transport sectors.
Tourism Declines in Conflict Zones and Surrounding Provinces
Tourism in Surin, Si Saket, Trat and Oddar Meanchey has dropped sharply.
Temples like Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai are closed to the public. Travel warnings and safety alerts have discouraged visitors, hurting local economies further.
Travel Safety in Thailand and Cambodia During the Conflict
Where Tourists Can Travel Safely and Where to Avoid
✅ Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh remain safe for travel.
⛔ Avoid border zones in Surin, Si Saket, Oddar Meanchey, and especially the Emerald Triangle.
Overland travel in contested areas is not recommended.
Essential Travel Tips and Precautions
- Follow your embassy’s travel advisories.
- Avoid all non-essential travel to the Thai-Cambodian border.
- Purchase travel insurance that covers conflict-related risks and evacuation. The best travel insurance
- Register your trip with your government’s citizen safety program.
The main regions affected by this conflict:
- Ubon Ratchathani
- Surin
- Si Sa Ket
- Buri Ram
- Sa Kaeo
- Chanthaburi (martial law currently in place)
- Trat (martial law currently in place).
FAQ: Traveling During the Thailand-Cambodia Border Conflict
Can I still travel to Thailand or Cambodia?
Yes, but avoid all travel near the border. Major cities and tourist hubs are safe.
Are there any border closures?
Yes. Some crossings like O’Smach, Chong Chom, and Choam have been closed temporarily due to fighting.
Is full-scale war likely?
Most analysts think a large-scale war is unlikely. However, localized military tensions could persist for weeks or months.
Is international mediation working?
Malaysia is playing a lead mediation role via ASEAN. The U.S. and China are monitoring the situation, but progress is slow due to mutual distrust.
