What Triggered the Violence?
At the core of the conflict is the ancient Preah Vihear Temple, perched atop a hill along the border. Though ruled in favor of Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 1962, the surrounding land has remained a point of friction.
Fighting broke out on July 24 and continued into July 25, with both countries accusing each other of initiating the attack. Thailand claims Cambodian forces targeted villages with artillery, while Cambodia alleges Thailand used cluster bombs and drone strikes near the sacred temple.
What’s the Ground Situation?
Casualties: At least 15 people have died, including civilians on both sides.
Displacement: Thai officials say over 1.3 lakh people (130,000+) have been evacuated from four northeastern provinces. Cambodia has evacuated 30,000–40,000 residents from affected regions.
Weapons used: Reports confirm the use of F-16 fighter jets, long-range rockets, and tanks.
Both sides have mobilized reinforcements. With no ceasefire in sight, there is growing fear that the conflict could spiral into a regional crisis.
Why India Should Pay Attention
India has strong diplomatic, cultural, and trade ties with both Thailand and Cambodia. A prolonged conflict in Southeast Asia could impact Indian investments, regional connectivity projects, and the safety of Indian citizens living or working in the region.
India has not issued an official statement yet, but foreign policy experts suggest New Delhi will push for a peaceful, diplomatic solution, in line with its “Act East” strategy and ASEAN cooperation.
International Reactions
The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene an emergency session, while ASEAN members, led by Malaysia, are pushing for immediate peace talks. The situation is being closely monitored by global powers, including the US and China.
In Other News: Hobby World Mourns Shunsaku Tamiya
In the middle of the crisis, Japan lost one of its cultural icons — Shunsaku Tamiya, the man behind the legendary Tamiya model kits, passed away at the age of 90. For decades, his company inspired generations of hobbyists with world-class plastic models and RC cars.
Tamiya’s legacy lives on in miniature form — a reminder of how creativity can build bridges even in a world full of conflict.
