Thailand warns Cambodia conflict could escalate to war

The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified, leading to severe consequences for both parties. As of July 25, 2025, at least 15 people were reported dead in Thailand, with one fatality occurring in Cambodia as fighting spreads to multiple locations along the contested border. This violence has resulted in tens of thousands of people being displaced, prompting the Thai government to evacuate approximately 100,000 individuals from border regions to temporary shelters in four provinces. The clashes have provoked severe accusations, with Thailand claiming that Cambodia has deployed heavy weaponry while Cambodia alleges that Thailand is using banned cluster munitions. Amid the escalating violence, both nations have engaged in a fierce blame game over the origins of the conflict. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai of Thailand highlighted the necessity of defending their territory against what they perceive as aggressive actions from Cambodia. Concurrently, Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected proposals for third-party mediation, asserting their preference for a bilateral resolution. This decision comes as Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged both nations to consider mediation through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), emphasizing a traditional approach to diplomacy in the region. The situation on the ground remains precarious, with reports detailing ongoing military activities that exacerbate the fear and uncertainty faced by local communities. Areas such as Ubon Ratchathani and Surin provinces in Thailand have experienced significant clashes, with civilians caught in the crossfire forced to take refuge in makeshift shelters. Evacuees have shared harrowing accounts of the violence, reflecting a profound sense of anxiety as memories of previous border conflicts resurface. International responses to the crisis have varied, with the United States calling for an immediate end to hostilities while China has expressed deep concern and pledged to work towards promoting peace and dialogue. The implications of these armed confrontations extend beyond immediate casualties, threatening stability in the region and raising fears of a wider conflict. As hostilities continue, the prospect of a peaceful resolution appears increasingly remote, leaving many to speculate how this latest escalation will play out in the coming days and weeks.