Preahvixiya Conflict: Tensions Between Thailand and Cambodia Escalate
Military clashes have intensified again in the border area between Thailand and Cambodia. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
This conflict is caused by historical disputes, economic interests, and competition among political elites. At the center of the conflict is the Preahvixiya temple, known in Thailand as Phra Vihan.
The temple was built by the Khmers in the 9th-12th centuries, initially dedicated to the god Shiva and later to Buddhism. According to historical sources, in the 15th century, Siamese troops occupied weakened areas of Cambodia due to internal conflicts.
In 1863, King Norodom of Cambodia requested the establishment of a protectorate by France. On a map drawn by France in 1907, Preahvixiya was marked as Cambodian territory, which was initially accepted by Thailand.
However, during World War II, in 1941, Thailand occupied this territory. After the war, the area was briefly returned to French control, but in 1954 Thailand took it under its control again.
In 1962, the International Court confirmed that Preahvixiya belongs to Cambodia. In 2008, Cambodia initiated the inclusion of Preahvixiya in UNESCO's World Heritage list.
Thailand initially supported this initiative but later changed its decision due to internal political pressure. This led to disputes and military clashes between the two countries.
In recent years, the conflict has not been limited to territorial disputes but has also become linked to economic and cybercrime issues. In June 2025, Thai Prime Minister Phetchongtan Chinnavat called the neighboring Cambodian city of Poipet an online fraud center.
The Cambodian government rejected these accusations, emphasizing that the root of the crimes lies in Thailand. International organizations have provided information supporting Thailand's position.
According to data, between 100,000 and 150,000 people are forced to work under coercive conditions in fraud centers in Cambodia. This system is estimated to generate an annual income of 12.5 billion dollars and involves high-ranking officials' interests.
Thailand's fight against these centers is causing financial and reputational difficulties for Cambodia's political system. In 2025, Cambodian leader Hun Sen released a recording of a phone conversation with Thai Prime Minister Phetchongtan to the public.
This incident further strained relations between the two countries. Conflicts and disagreements among elites are intensifying.
The Preahvixiya temple has become not only a historical monument but also a symbol of disputes between the two countries. A long-term solution to the conflict is not yet in sight.
