At least 11 casualties have been reported in renewed military clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border this week, marking the deadliest escalation since a 2023 ceasefire agreement. Both nations' defense ministries issued statements on December 11, 2025, accusing each other of initiating hostilities near the disputed Preah Vihear temple complex.
The violence comes as regional analysts warn of mounting pressure on ASEAN mediation efforts. 'This tragic development undermines three years of diplomatic progress,' said Chanthra Sophal, a Phnom Penh-based geopolitical researcher. 'The timing coincides with increased infrastructure development near contested areas, creating new flashpoints.'
Thai authorities reported evacuating 12 villages while Cambodia's military command confirmed reinforced positions along the 798-km border. The clashes have disrupted cross-border trade routes handling $6.2 billion in annual commerce, prompting concerns from regional business leaders ahead of Q1 2026 economic forecasts.
ASEAN chair Vietnam has called for an emergency meeting, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged 'maximum restraint.' The conflict's resurgence poses challenges for China's Belt and Road Initiative projects connecting mainland Southeast Asia, though Beijing has yet to issue an official statement.
