Thai-Cambodian border dispute

The Thai-Cambodian border dispute centers on the overlapping claims over territory near the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Historically, border markings were unclear, leading to disagreements over land boundaries and control. Tensions escalated into armed clashes between the two nations, involving military and police forces. The dispute has also involved international courts, notably the International Court of Justice, which ruled in favor of Cambodia's sovereignty over the area. Despite legal decisions, sporadic violence and diplomatic negotiations continue, reflecting ongoing national sensitivities and the importance of the territory to both countries' cultural and strategic interests.