New Restrictions Take Effect
Reduced Hours and Bans Begin Saturday
Thailand has implemented stricter controls along its border with Cambodia, shortening checkpoint hours and restricting certain crossings starting Saturday evening, June 7, 2025. This move comes as Cambodia persists in accusing Thailand of territorial violations and a May 28 shooting, while pushing to involve the International Court of Justice, intensifying a long-standing dispute between the two nations.
Conflicting Claims Fuel Tension
Military Perspectives Clash
The Thai military refutes Cambodia’s allegations, asserting that Cambodian troops encroached on Thai land in Ubon Ratchathani and fired on Thai soldiers attempting dialogue on May 28. This disagreement has heightened tensions, prompting Thailand to adopt a phased approach to border management, balancing security needs with the well-being of local communities in 2025.
Phased Strategy for Border Control
Four Stages from Soft to Severe
Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura outlined four escalating measures on June 8, 2025. The first phase intensifies checks on risky individuals like gamblers and suspected criminals while allowing essential trade and labor crossings. The second phase limits crossing days and times, the third targets high-risk zones with selective closures, and the fourth envisions a full border shutdown if an invasion occurs, all designed to adapt to evolving situations.
Protecting Local Communities
Focus on Minimizing Impact
Nikorndej emphasized that these measures prioritize the safety of Thai and Cambodian civilians uninvolved in the conflict. Thailand remains committed to resolving issues through bilateral channels, particularly the Joint Boundary Committee (JBC), scheduled to meet on June 14, 2025, aiming to de-escalate tensions while safeguarding border residents’ livelihoods.
Updated Checkpoint Operations
Specific Changes Across Regions
Several checkpoints now operate under revised schedules. Chong Ahn Ma in Ubon Ratchathani opens Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, down from twice weekly. Sai Taku in Buri Ram runs three days a week from 9 a.m. to noon, while Chong Sa-ngam in Si Sa Ket and Chong Jom in Surin operate three days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., banning construction material transport. Ban Klong Luek and the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge in Sa Kaeo shift to 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., restricting gamblers, tourists, and large trucks, with traders using seven-day passes. Ban Khao Din and Ban Ta Phraya in Sa Kaeo open from 8 a.m. to noon or 4 p.m., blocking large vehicles, while Ban Nong Prue and Ban Hat Lek adjust to 8 a.m. to noon or 4 p.m., with military discretion on crossings, reflecting Thailand’s tailored response in 2025.
