On June 15, 2025, Cambodia escalated its long-running border dispute with Thailand by filing a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over four contested sites: Mom Bei (Emerald Triangle), Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch, and Ta Krabei temples. The move follows a fatal clash on May 28 in the Mom Bei area, where a Cambodian soldier was killed. Prime Minister Hun Manet called for a peaceful resolution through international law, seeking “justice, fairness, and clarity.”
Thailand rejected ICJ jurisdiction, insisting on bilateral talks via the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). While discussions in Phnom Penh on June 14–15 made limited progress, Cambodia refused to include the disputed areas in the JBC framework, citing the need for international arbitration.
The dispute, tied to an 820-km undemarcated border, has a violent past, including 2008–2011 clashes over Preah Vihear. Recent tensions saw Cambodia closing border gates and rerouting internet traffic, while Thailand restricted crossings. Both sides have since pulled troops back to 2024 positions.
Experts doubt a quick resolution amid mutual distrust. Cambodia’s ICJ filing may be a strategic move, but Thailand’s refusal to recognize the court complicates hopes for a binding outcome.