Cambodian villagers fleeting from their homes close to the border with Thailand. Thailand launched air strikes on Cambodia over the weekend after border clashes that killed one Thai soldier and a series of what Thailand describes as “provocations” by Cambodia, including laying landmines in disputed territory. The century-old conflict centres around a border dispute, notably involving one of the biggest flashpoints, the 11th-century Preah Vihear temple, which Cambodia claims based on a 1907 map created during French colonial rule. The International Court of Justice awarded jurisdiction of the temple to Cambodia in 1962, but Thailand has continued to maintain a military presence in the area. While Thailand continues to press diplomatically for recognition of its claim, Cambodia wants the ICJ to rule again.

Source: The Irish Times December 09, 2025 08:18 UTC