Thailand has escalated tensions with neighboring Cambodia by recalling its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelling Cambodia’s top diplomat in Bangkok. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced the move Wednesday, calling it a “necessary step” amid unspecified disagreements.
While details remain scarce, analysts suggest this could signal renewed friction over long-standing issues like border disputes or regional alliances. The two Southeast Asian nations have a history of clashes, including a 2011 military confrontation near the ancient Preah Vihear temple 🏯 – a UNESCO World Heritage Site both countries claim.
Social media in both nations lit up with reactions, from memes comparing the situation to Game of Thrones 🐉 to calls for calm. “This feels like a plot twist nobody saw coming,” tweeted one user in Bangkok.
ASEAN watchers are concerned about potential ripple effects in the region. With Cambodia’s growing ties to China and Thailand’s strategic partnerships, this diplomatic chill could reshape power dynamics. Stay tuned as we track this developing story.
