Thailand has closed nearly all land border crossings into Cambodia across seven provinces due to rising tensions over a territorial dispute. The move affects both Thai and foreign travelers, with only limited exceptions for medical or educational reasons.
Tensions have grown since a deadly clash in May at the contested Chong Bok area, leading to nationalistic protests, military redeployments, and a wave of tit-for-tat measures from both countries. Cambodia has banned Thai media, cut internet bandwidth from Thailand, and halted imports of fruit, vegetables, and fuel. Thailand has responded with tighter border controls and reduced visa durations for Cambodian visitors.
The crisis has also triggered political fallout in Thailand, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra under pressure after a leaked call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen stirred controversy. In the call, she appeared too conciliatory, angering parts of the military and prompting a coalition partner to leave the government.
For now, the border closures affect travelers crossing through Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Buriram, Sri Sa Ket, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Travelers planning to pass through this region should check for updates and consider alternative routes.
Tensions have grown since a deadly clash in May at the contested Chong Bok area, leading to nationalistic protests, military redeployments, and a wave of tit-for-tat measures from both countries. Cambodia has banned Thai media, cut internet bandwidth from Thailand, and halted imports of fruit, vegetables, and fuel. Thailand has responded with tighter border controls and reduced visa durations for Cambodian visitors.
The crisis has also triggered political fallout in Thailand, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra under pressure after a leaked call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen stirred controversy. In the call, she appeared too conciliatory, angering parts of the military and prompting a coalition partner to leave the government.
For now, the border closures affect travelers crossing through Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Buriram, Sri Sa Ket, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Travelers planning to pass through this region should check for updates and consider alternative routes.