Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute: Civilians' Lives Devastated Months After Fighting Ceases

French daily Le Monde has reported on the continuing impact of the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, highlighting civilians still affected months after fighting ended. In an article published Aug 2, titled “In Cambodia, even without fighting for seven months, civilians’ lives continue to be devastated by the border conflict with Thailand,” the newspaper described damaged infrastructure, blocked roads and displaced communities in western Cambodia. The report focused on the route from Pursat Province through the Cardamom Mountains to the Thma Da crossing opposite Thailand’s Trat Province. National Road 55, opened in 2020 to boost trade and tourism, has been disrupted by the unresolved dispute. The Chroy Chey Victory Bridge remains damaged after what Cambodian authorities said was a Thai F‑16 strike in Dec 2025. Near Thma Da, movement is restricted by shipping containers and other barriers. Cambodian officials say the measures prevent access to affected areas. The border dispute, covering competing claims along the 817‑km frontier, remains unresolved despite a ceasefire at the end of 2025. Phnom Penh accuses Bangkok of occupying Cambodian territory, while Thai authorities reject the allegations and insist issues should be handled through existing mechanisms. More than 20,000 civilians remain unable to return home due to restrictions, particularly in Banteay Meanchey Province, according to Cambodian officials. Dozens of containers block roads near Chok Chey and Boeng Trakuon villages, which the government has classified as disputed zones. Border demarcation talks have stalled. Cambodia accuses Thailand of delaying Joint Border Commission meetings, while Bangkok says conditions must be suitable before discussions resume. In Ta Moan Sen Chey, near Ta Moan Thom Temple, residents report homes and public facilities damaged in 2025 clashes. Le Monde described a pagoda and school still bearing signs of fighting.