Border closures in Thailand: Travel warning for holidaymakers to Cambodia!

Border closures in Thailand: Travel warning for holidaymakers to Cambodia!

Amid growing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, the Foreign Office has strongly advised travelers to avoid the border area. This warning comes after Thailand closed border crossings in six provinces, significantly impacting tourists. The popular Aranyaprathet-Poipet crossing, through which many holidaymakers traveled to the famous temples of Angkor, is particularly affected. This situation means that holidaymakers currently have no opportunity to visit the historical sites in Cambodia. Only students and people who need medical assistance are granted exceptions. As the Mercury According to reports, travelers should pay close attention to local and international media and follow the instructions of security forces.

The border dispute between the two countries has deeper historical roots and goes back to colonial times. The reason is the unclear definition of the 800 kilometer long border, which repeatedly leads to conflicts. The current conflict escalated in late May when a shootout took place that left a Cambodian soldier dead. In response to the escalation of violence, Cambodia imposed a ban on imports of food, fuel and gas from Thailand, further aggravating the already tense situation.

Political instability in Thailand

In addition to the tense border situation, Thailand is also facing a political crisis. This was triggered by a leaked audio recording of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in which she referred to Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen as an “uncle” and a military official as her “opponent”. The reaction to these comments led to the Bhumjaithai Party, the country's second largest coalition party, leaving the ruling alliance.

The situation is causing growing protests against the government in Thailand. Many citizens are calling for the Prime Minister's resignation and early elections. There are concerns in the tourism industry about the possibility of a military coup similar to the one that rocked the country in 2014. Thailand has already experienced about a dozen coups since 1932, further increasing insecurity in the region. Loud n-tv There is therefore a high level of tension and uncertainty not only in the border region, but throughout the entire country.

Travelers should therefore inform themselves well and adjust their travel plans accordingly to ensure that they do not run into difficulties in this worrying situation.