Why Thailand and Cambodia are fighting again over the long-disputed border
Briefly

The conflict between Cambodia and Thailand ignited when Thailand conducted airstrikes against Cambodian targets along their disputed border. The historical rift dates back to 1907, when a treaty defined their border, leaving Preah Vihear temple in French territory. During WWII, Thailand seized the temple but later returned it. An International Court of Justice ruling in 1962 confirmed Cambodian sovereignty over Preah Vihear. Renewed tensions erupted in 2008 when Cambodia sought UNESCO status for the temple, leading to military posturing and nationalist fervor on both sides.
Relations between Cambodia and Thailand have been contentious since 1907, when the French colony of Cambodia and the independent Kingdom of Siam signed a treaty that delineated their border.
The treaty's map differed from its text, most notably leaving the Preah Vihear temple in French territory, leading to significant disputes over sovereignty.
In 1962, the International Court of Justice ruled that Preah Vihear belonged to Cambodia, a decision that Thailand accepted and withdrew its troops.
Tensions resurfaced in 2008 as Cambodia sought UNESCO recognition for Preah Vihear, leading to a military buildup along the border as nationalist sentiments rose.
Read at The Washington Post
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