Cambodia Calls for Urgent Negotiations as Border Conflict With Thailand Intensifies

Cambodia has appealed for immediate direct talks with Thailand as border clashes intensify along the 817-kilometre frontier, raising fears of a wider regional crisis. Senior adviser Suos Yara announced that Cambodia is prepared “at any time” to resume negotiations with Bangkok, stressing that the priority must be preventing further loss of life as artillery fire, tank movements, and airstrikes continue on both sides.

The renewed fighting marks the most serious escalation since both countries signed a U.S.-mediated ceasefire agreement in October, brokered by President Donald Trump. However, each government now accuses the other of violating the terms of the deal. Thailand reported launching airstrikes after claiming Cambodian forces breached the truce, while Phnom Penh insists it has only acted in self defense.

The border region has long been a flashpoint, particularly around disputed areas containing ancient temples and resource rich zones. Previous conflicts in 2008, 2011, and now again in 2025 have underscored the fragility of peace efforts between the two Southeast Asian neighbours.

Cambodia’s call for diplomacy comes amid growing international concern, with analysts warning that sustained hostilities could endanger civilian populations and destabilise broader regional security. Phnom Penh says dialogue is the only viable path forward and urged Thailand to return to the negotiating table “before the situation spirals further out of control.”