Border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia: The patience of the Thais is dwindling!

Border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia: The patience of the Thais is dwindling!

The current tensions on the Thai-Cambodian border concern people in Thailand more than ever. According to a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida Poll), most Thais feel patient but show unmistakable concerns about the worsening situation. This survey, conducted October 14-16 among 1,310 respondents from all regions, highlights the worrying sentiments in the country. What stands out is that 40.5% of respondents still have “moderate patience,” while 24.4% have already lost patience and 19.7% note that their patience is “starting to run out.” reports Bangkok Post.

However, this patience is being put to the test: over 54% of those surveyed are in favor of a drastic distancing from Cambodia and now see the neighbor as unreliable. For 14.2%, Cambodia is even an “enemy”. With increasing skepticism, a clear picture emerges - for many Thais, the border conflict is no longer just a geopolitical problem, but a real threat never loses its context.

The escalation of violence

The conflict is not just a diplomatic tug of war, but has already resulted in heated arguments. In recent weeks, Cambodian forces have fired rockets and artillery into Thai territory, triggering strong reactions and resulting in numerous civilian casualties. These attacks led to the evacuation of tens of thousands of people, including patients from hospitals in border regions. The Thai military responded with airstrikes and closed border crossings explains SRF.

Additionally, internal political tensions in Thailand, such as the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, have further complicated the situation. With mutual finger-pointing between governments and concerns from other nations such as Malaysia and China demanding diplomatic talks, the situation is more tense than ever.

The worries of border residents

The uncertainty is greatest for people in the border provinces. An estimate here shows that 46.2% of those surveyed fear that the conflict could continue without a solution. Additionally, 44.8% are worried about their livelihoods, while others are concerned about the well-being of security forces at the border. To resolve the conflict, 35.2% want economic pressure on Cambodia and only 1.4% support going to the International Court of Justice said the Bangkok Post.

One thing is certain: the Thais' patience could be put to the test if the situation does not calm down as soon as possible. However the diplomatic talks continue, the people are watching developments with concern and hope for peace at the border.