On June 22, 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the closure of key border checkpoints, Ban Jup Koki and Chong Choum, affecting Sisaket province in Thailand, amid rising tensions. The move halts fuel and gas imports from Thailand, exacerbating economic and humanitarian challenges for civilians reliant on cross-border trade. The closure reflects escalating border restrictions following historical disputes and recent incidents between the countries. Further exploration into this conflict reveals ongoing impacts on regional stability and international engagements.
In a significant move impacting regional relations, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the closure of the Ban Jup Koki checkpoint in Banteay Ampil District and the Chong Choum checkpoint in Anlong Veng District on June 22, 2025. This decision was communicated via Facebook and marks an escalation in border restrictions amidst rising tensions with Thailand. Both checkpoints face corresponding Thai border checkpoints in Sisaket province, and the closure comes with a halt on fuel and gas imports from Thailand, effective from midnight of the announcement date.
The backdrop to this decision includes a long-standing border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand, characterized by shared land borders exceeding 800 kilometers, with numerous non-demarcated areas leading to jurisdictional conflicts. Historic tensions have been exacerbated by disputes over ancient Hindu temples on the Dângrêk Mountains, with notable conflict over Prasat Ta Muen Thom and Preah Vihear. The disputed Preah Vihear Temple was awarded to Cambodia by the ICJ in 1962, but the ruling did not resolve all contested regions, fueling ongoing tensions.
Although these recent closures are not directly related to temple disputes, they follow recent border incidents and diplomatic frictions. In response, Thailand has enforced strict border control across its seven provinces adjoining Cambodia and ordered a complete shutdown of additional border crossings in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces by July 25. Security Council members are expected to express support for ASEAN’s facilitation efforts during the urgent meeting on July 25.
Thailand enforces strict border controls, shutting additional crossings amidst rising diplomatic tensions with Cambodia.
The Royal Thai Government has increased scrutiny on flights to Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport, citing perceived transnational crime threats, and strengthened military presence along border areas due to alleged security threats from Cambodia.
The closure of multiple checkpoints has severely restricted the movement of goods and people between the two nations. Civilians on both sides face hardships due to abrupt supply chain disruptions, with the suspension of fuel and gas imports exacerbating economic and logistical challenges in border provinces.
Incidents of landmine injuries to Thai soldiers have also raised concerns over civilian safety in adjacent areas. Diplomatically, both countries have recalled their ambassadors, indicating a crisis.
The United Nations has shown interest in the situation, with international calls for a peaceful resolution and adherence to border agreements continuing amid ongoing tensions. Cambodia’s actions, viewed as punitive, and Thailand’s heightened security measures have further strained relations, with both countries facing increased calls for de-escalation.
