"This is a new dimension in Southeast Asian conflict -- military action blended with strategic 'acting' to influence global perceptions." Asean limitationAlthough Asean eventually stepped in with facilitation by Malaysia and the United States, Assoc Prof Dulyapak said the regional bloc displayed familiar weaknesses. Although today's geopolitical landscape is different, the Thai-Cambodian crisis drew both Beijing and Washington back into a familiar stage, said Assoc Prof Dulyapak. Assoc Prof Thasothorn Tootongkam of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University said the crisis influenced governance, foreign policy and public sentiment. "Both major powers remain deeply interested, but neither can dictate outcomes as they once did," Assoc Prof Thasothorn said.

Source: Bangkok Post January 03, 2026 23:11 UTC