BANDUNG, SEATIZENS – The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has escalated again. After negotiations failed and armed clashes killed a soldier, Cambodia decided to take the case to court. Phnom Penh formally submitted a request to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague.
In an official statement, Cambodia announced its decision. Prime Minister Hun Manet said, “Cambodia seeks a peaceful, legal resolution through the ICJ to settle the border dispute.” He shared this on Facebook on Sunday (June 15, 2025), according to Reuters.
Hun Manet also posted a photo of Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn holding the official letter to the ICJ. The letter contains Cambodia’s formal request for the court’s intervention. On May 28, a brief skirmish occurred in a territory claimed by both countries. The clash resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. This incident highlights the risk of escalation at four disputed border points.
Hun Manet explained that these four areas are complex. They pose a high risk of armed conflict. Cambodia has proposed to both countries that they jointly bring the case to the ICJ. If Thailand refuses, Cambodia will proceed alone.
Thailand’s Response and Ongoing Talks
Thailand has not yet responded officially. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment. Previously, Thailand said it does not recognize the ICJ’s authority in this matter. Bangkok prefers to resolve the dispute through bilateral talks.
Border demarcation talks over the weekend also ended in deadlock. Both sides promised to ease tensions, but they did not reach concrete results. Thailand plans to continue discussions and host the next talks in September.
Cambodia’s Measures in Response
Cambodia announced it will stop purchasing electricity, internet bandwidth, and other Thai products. The government also ordered local TV stations to stop broadcasting Thai films. These steps serve as protests against Thailand’s stance.
Cambodia has experience with the ICJ. In 1962, the court ruled in Cambodia’s favor over the Preah Vihear Temple dispute. The country also asked the ICJ for clarifications about nearby territories in 2013.
(Seatizens)
