Thailand Strikes Cambodia After Peace Talks: What’s Next for Southeast Asia?

Published on December 22, 2025

On December 22, 2025, the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand took a dramatic turn after Thailand launched airstrikes on Cambodian territory. This development occurred just hours after both nations had agreed to hold peace talks, following a series of deadly border clashes that have intensified relations between the two countries. The Cambodian Defence Ministry reported that F-16 fighter jets were deployed by Thailand to strike areas in the Siem Reap and Preah Vihear provinces of Cambodia, areas that have become hot spots in the ongoing territorial dispute.

The airstrikes have escalated what had already been a highly volatile situation. Cambodia’s claim of airstrikes from Thailand contradicts the joint agreement made by the two nations during an ASEAN summit, where they had agreed to hold truce talks aimed at halting the violence. The breach of this agreement has sparked international concern, with many calling for an immediate de-escalation and renewed diplomatic engagement to avoid further bloodshed.

The Background to the Cambodia-Thailand Conflict

The conflict between Cambodia and Thailand over their shared border has a long and complex history, primarily revolving around the disputed Preah Vihear Temple and surrounding areas, which both countries claim as their own. The issue flared up several years ago, resulting in deadly clashes and military skirmishes. Though a series of negotiations have taken place over the years, tensions have remained high, with both sides accusing each other of provocative actions.

At the heart of the conflict lies the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a cliff that overlooks the Cambodian plains. This temple, dating back to the 11th century, has been a symbol of national pride for both countries. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 1962 that the temple itself belongs to Cambodia, but Thailand maintains territorial claims over the surrounding land, leading to frequent confrontations.

The Role of ASEAN in the Diplomatic Effort

In a bid to manage the escalating situation, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) had been involved in mediating discussions between the two countries. During recent meetings, both Thailand and Cambodia agreed to engage in truce talks aimed at finding a peaceful resolution to their differences. However, the unexpected airstrikes have cast doubt on the effectiveness of these diplomatic efforts.

ASEAN, a regional body that aims to foster cooperation and resolve disputes among its members, has called for both sides to return to the negotiating table and respect the ceasefire. Despite this, the airstrikes suggest that Thailand is either unwilling to honor the peace agreement or is responding to what it perceives as threats from Cambodia.

The Impact of the Air Strikes on Regional Stability

The Cambodia-Thailand conflict has the potential to destabilize the region, with neighboring countries watching closely. The latest airstrikes highlight the fragile state of peace in Southeast Asia, a region already facing numerous challenges, including territorial disputes in the South China Sea and concerns over military build-ups in several countries.

Thailand’s military actions have drawn condemnation from several quarters, including human rights organizations and international diplomats, who are calling for restraint and immediate action to prevent further escalation. There are also concerns that the violence could disrupt regional trade, particularly in the area of Cambodia’s economy, which has seen significant investment in recent years from neighboring Thailand.

Efforts for Ceasefire and Reconciliation

Following the airstrikes, both Cambodia and Thailand have pledged to work toward a peaceful resolution, though the situation remains uncertain. Diplomatic channels remain open, but the breach of the peace agreement has severely strained relations between the two countries. Cambodia’s Prime Minister has publicly condemned the airstrikes, calling them a direct violation of the peace talks and a threat to regional stability.

In response, Thailand has defended its actions, stating that the airstrikes were a necessary response to perceived threats from Cambodia’s military. However, this defense has done little to calm the growing tensions, and both governments are now under increasing pressure from ASEAN and the international community to de-escalate the situation and return to negotiations.

The Future of ASEAN’s Role in the Conflict

The role of ASEAN in resolving the Cambodia-Thailand conflict will be critically assessed in the coming days. As a regional organization, ASEAN is supposed to foster peace, stability, and cooperation among its member nations. The ongoing conflict between Cambodia and Thailand presents a major test for ASEAN’s ability to mediate disputes and prevent military confrontations within Southeast Asia.

Given the breach of the peace agreement and the recent escalation, ASEAN will likely need to increase its diplomatic efforts to prevent further violence. Some observers have suggested that ASEAN may need to involve external mediators, such as the United Nations, to bring both countries back to the negotiating table and ensure that the peace process is upheld.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Cambodia and Thailand

The Cambodia-Thailand conflict has entered a critical phase, with both nations at a crossroads following the airstrikes on December 22, 2025. The path to peace remains uncertain, and the breach of the truce talks has significantly undermined trust between the two countries. While ASEAN continues to push for de-escalation, the involvement of external actors may be required to ensure a sustainable resolution.

The international community will be closely monitoring the situation, and the actions of Thailand and Cambodia over the coming weeks will likely have significant implications not only for the two nations but for the entire Southeast Asian region. The need for dialogue, diplomacy, and conflict resolution has never been more pressing.