The tank screeches as it rolls into the ad-hoc military base before four battle-weary soldiers jump out to re-inspect the hefty vehicle.

Thailand warned its conflict with neighboring Cambodia could “potentially develop into a war” as troops used rockets and artillery to shell targets along their contested border for a second

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia that broke out on Thursday, July 24, 2025 along 12 locations along the border has claimed the lives of 33 people.

The Thai warning came as the U.S. expressed its grave concern about the most serious fighting in years between the Southeast Asian neighbors. The U.S. and China compete for influence in fast-growing Southeast Asia, and both have good relations with Thailand and Cambodia.

Of course, trouble at the 508-mile (817 km) shared border is nothing new. For over a century, Thailand and Cambodia have contested sovereignty at various undemarcated points in the thick jungle punctuated with culturally-significant temples albeit with scant strategic or economic value.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that both the leaders from Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to meet immediately for ceasefire talks after three days of clashes

Tensions have bubbled between the two neighbors for months, flaring on Thursday as Cambodia and Thailand exchanged fire.