BANGKOK — Thailand has introduced new restrictions on its land borders as of Monday, blocking tourists from crossing into Cambodia amid an ongoing border conflict between the two nations. The discord escalated after a May 28 incident that resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier in a contested area. Although both countries have agreed to de-escalate the situation, they continue to take actions that maintain elevated tensions.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that Thailand will enhance screening processes at its land borders and restrict tourist crossings to Cambodia. Only students, medical patients, and individuals requiring essential goods will be permitted to enter or leave Thailand. She mentioned that these steps aim to prevent individuals from traveling to Cambodia’s profitable casinos but admitted that it seems all tourists would be blocked under the new measures.
The Thai army confirmed later that day that these restrictions have been put into effect at every land border checkpoint between Thailand and Cambodia spanning five provinces. This has resulted in halting all crossings, except those considered necessary.
In retaliation, Cambodia has ceased some Thai internet services, and has blocked electricity and fuel supplies from Thailand. Previously, Cambodia relied on Thailand for 30% of its gasoline and other fuels. To strengthen its position, Thailand is also considering blocking exports that could assist scam operations in Cambodia and plans to cooperate with other nations and international organizations to suppress cybercrime in Southeast Asia.
Earlier this year, Thailand took similar actions against online scam operations in neighboring Myanmar by cutting off electricity, internet, and gas supplies to border towns where these scams were based. Paetongtarn indicated that comparable steps might soon target scam operations in Cambodia. An April report by the United Nations identified Cambodia as a central point for scams exploiting people with deceptive romantic overtures, fictitious investment deals, and illegal gambling schemes.
Paetongtarn has faced criticism for what is perceived as a conciliatory approach towards Cambodia, notably from right-wing nationalists who harbor opposition against her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. A recent leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and Hun Sen, Cambodia’s Senate President and former prime minister, has incited backlash and demands for her resignation. Detractors argue that her conversation portrayed Thailand as conceding to Cambodia by labeling a Thai military commander overseeing the contested border as “an opponent.” In response, a number of nationalist groups have organized demonstrations slated for this week, urging for Paetongtarn’s resignation.