The border war between Thailand and Cambodia has left deep scars, with Cambodia reportedly suffering far higher military casualties than its neighbour. The human, economic, and social costs are mounting, with hospitals in Cambodia filled with severely wounded soldiers.

At Mongkol Borei hospital, the aftermath of the conflict is painfully evident. Soldiers with amputations and severe blast injuries lie on hospital beds, while families try to provide comfort. Anaesthetist Sar Chanraksmey shared graphic images of injuries, saying: “My heart aches… Please tell the world we just want peace.”

Escalation of Conflict

• Renewed fighting: The current round of clashes, which began on 7 December 2025, has lasted longer and caused more destruction than the five-day July conflict.
• Artillery and airstrikes: Thai F-16 jets have bombed targets inside Cambodia, including the Chinese-built Me Teuk river bridge, tearing a 20-meter section and striking nearby buildings alleged to be used as military posts.
• Rocket attacks: Cambodia has fired BM21 rockets at Thai territory, killing a civilian and injuring others despite evacuations.

Thailand estimates that several hundred Cambodian soldiers have died, compared with 21 Thai military fatalities, highlighting the imbalance in military strength.

Drivers of the Conflict

• Territorial dispute: The long-standing 120-year-old dispute over small border areas has reignited, with each side blaming the other for provocations.
• Political context: Thai leaders are under pressure ahead of elections, with military commanders determined to weaken Cambodia’s presence on the border.
• Scam industry: Thailand has targeted Cambodian casinos linked to online scams, a sector associated with politically connected Cambodian figures.

Humanitarian and Economic Toll

• Displaced populations: Over 480,000 Cambodians have fled their homes, and more than 700,000 migrant workers returned from Thailand.
• Trade disruption: The $5bn cross-border trade has come to a halt, affecting communities on both sides.
• Global scrutiny: US and UK sanctions against Cambodian tycoons linked to online scams threaten an industry that contributes significantly to the Cambodian economy.

Cambodian appeals for peace, international mediation, and the reinstatement of the July ceasefire have so far been ignored by Thailand, whose leaders cite previous violations and the need to demonstrate strength ahead of elections.

Social Impact

Communities along the border, once closely linked, now face suspicion and hostility, amplified by social media. On the Thai side, Cambodians have been forced to leave towns like Surin, and deepening nationalism complicates reconciliation.

Experts warn that without trust-building and international diplomacy, restoring bilateral relations will remain extremely difficult, prolonging the humanitarian and economic crisis.