A clash between Thai and Cambodian troops occurred near the disputed Ta Moan Thom temple in Oddar Meanchey Province, northwestern Cambodia. The Thai military stated that Cambodian troops, preceded by a surveillance drone, opened fire on Thursday. This incident follows a May clash resulting in a Cambodian soldier's death and escalating tensions, including border crossing closures and trade restrictions by Cambodia on Thai goods. A Thai soldier lost a leg in a landmine incident on Wednesday.

In response to the escalating situation, Thailand recalled its ambassador from Cambodia, expelled Cambodia's ambassador, and downgraded diplomatic relations. Cambodia reciprocated by withdrawing its diplomats from Thailand, ordering Thai diplomats to leave, and reducing diplomatic relations to the lowest level, represented by the rank of “second secretary”. Earlier accusations of landmine placement by Cambodia on the Thai side of the border further fueled the conflict.

Impact Statement: The escalating border conflict and diplomatic downgrade significantly strain relations between Thailand and Cambodia, impacting trade and regional stability.