Context:

A long-simmering border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has erupted into a diplomatic and political crisis, culminating in the suspension of Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by the country’s Constitutional Court. The court’s action follows a leaked phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen that sparked a domestic backlash and accusations of compromising national interests.

About A Border Clash

The immediate crisis began on May 28, 2025, when armed forces of Thailand and Cambodia exchanged fire in a contested border zone that both claim as their own. The clash resulted in the death of one Cambodian soldier, prompting sharp diplomatic exchanges. Though both sides pledged de-escalation, the tensions lingered.

At the heart of the issue is a long-disputed border area stretching across more than 800 kilometers (500 miles). The territorial disagreement dates back to a 1907 French colonial map, which Cambodia uses to support its claims, while Thailand disputes its accuracy.

One flashpoint is the Preah Vihear Temple, a 1,000-year-old structure awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1962. Despite the ruling, tensions have flared repeatedly:

• 2011: A series of clashes killed 20 soldiers and displaced thousands.
• 2013: The ICJ reaffirmed Cambodia's sovereignty over the temple.
• 2025: Cambodia seeks another ICJ ruling, this time over newer contested areas.

Thailand, however, has rejected ICJ jurisdiction for the latest dispute, insisting on resolving the matter through a bilateral mechanism formed in 2000.

 India-Cambodia and India-Thailand Relations:

India's relations with Cambodia and Thailand are multifaceted, encompassing trade, cultural exchange, strategic cooperation, and addressing regional challenges. Both nations are crucial partners in India's Act East Policy, leveraging historical and cultural ties.

Key Aspects of Relations

• Historical and Cultural Links: Both Cambodia and Thailand share deep-rooted cultural and historical connections with India, with Buddhism playing a vital role.
• Strategic Importance: Cambodia and Thailand are key partners in India's Act East Policy, with cooperation in forums like ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation.
• Trade and Investment: Bilateral trade has grown, with India's exports including pharmaceuticals, vehicles, and textiles, and imports including apparel and electrical machinery.
• Defense Cooperation: India has strengthened defense cooperation with both nations through joint military exercises and training programs.
• Regional Cooperation: India and both nations cooperate in addressing regional challenges like maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity.

Potential Consequences:

The suspension of Thailand's Prime Minister and ongoing tensions with Cambodia may lead to:

• Short-term Uncertainty: Uncertainty in Thailand's leadership may impact India's short-term diplomatic and economic engagements with Thailand and the region.
• Long-term Implications: The dispute may have long-term implications for regional stability and India's strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia.