Brief by Shorts91 NewsDesk / 08:34am on 25 Jul 2025,Friday International
Thailand has rejected international mediation to end its escalating border conflict with Cambodia, insisting on bilateral talks only. The dispute, centered around the Preah Vihear temple area, has led to the worst fighting in over a decade, with 16 deaths—mostly Thai civilians—and over 60,000 displaced. Artillery exchanges continue for a second day, with both sides blaming each other for initiating hostilities. Offers from the U.S., China, and Malaysia (ASEAN chair) were declined by Bangkok, which demands Cambodia cease attacks first. Cambodia’s PM Hun Manet has appealed to the UN Security Council, calling Thailand’s actions “unprovoked aggression.” ASEAN’s diplomatic limitations are exposed as tensions threaten broader regional instability. (PC: Reuters)
