Detailed Account

By early June 2025, Cambodia actively sought a peaceful resolution to escalating border tensions through diplomatic negotiations with Thailand. These initiatives reflected Cambodia’s commitment to dialogue, regional stability, and respect for international law.

Despite these efforts, the Thai side refused to cooperate, declining meaningful engagement and contributing to a worsening situation along the border.

Defensive Economic Measures (12–22 June 2025)

Between 12 and 22 June 2025, Cambodia implemented defensive economic measures in response to Thailand’s escalating threats and unilateral actions. These measures included:

  • Temporary suspension of imports from Thailand
  • Responses to Thai threats to block:
    • Fuel supplies
    • Internet connectivity
    • Electricity transmission
  • Reaction to Thailand’s unilateral border closure

These actions were undertaken strictly to safeguard Cambodia’s national security, economic stability, and civilian welfare.

On 15 June 2025, Cambodia formally submitted an application to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), seeking a lawful and peaceful resolution to Thailand’s repeated border violations.

This action reaffirmed Cambodia’s adherence to:

  • International law
  • Judicial settlement of disputes
  • Non-escalation and restraint

Political Destabilization in Thailand (19 June 2025)

On 19 June 2025, the political climate further deteriorated following the leak of a phone call between the Thai Prime Minister and Samdech Hun Sen. The incident sparked public outrage within Thailand and significantly destabilized Thailand’s internal political environment, further complicating bilateral relations.

Ta Moan Thom Temple Violation (22 June 2025)

On 22 June 2025, at approximately 7:30 AM, three Thai soldiers led a group of around 150 Thai cyclists into the Ta Moan Thom temple complex without prior notification to the Cambodian side.

This act constituted a clear violation of the bilateral agreement, which stipulates that:

  • Temple visiting hours are limited to 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Advance coordination with Cambodian authorities is mandatory

The unauthorized entry represented a direct infringement of Cambodian sovereignty and further escalated tensions in the sensitive border area.

Official Position

The Royal Government of Cambodia strongly condemns these actions and reiterates its firm commitment to resolving all border disputes through peaceful, legal, and diplomatic means, while maintaining its inherent right to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Conclusion

Throughout June 2025, Cambodia consistently pursued dialogue, restraint, and international legal mechanisms. Thailand’s refusal to cooperate, combined with economic pressure, political instability, and on-the-ground provocations, significantly contributed to the deterioration of bilateral relations and increased risks to regional stability.