In a swift escalation, Thailand closed a key border crossing in Buri Ram province on June 21, citing national security concerns. The Thai army emphasized it had “the prerogative to restrict border movements to protect sovereignty,” referring to similar actions dating back to June 7. Cambodia retaliated almost immediately, announcing the permanent shutdown of the same checkpoint and an additional crossing, according to Prime Minister Hun Manet.

Tensions remain high along the frontier after a deadly clash on May 28 in the contested Chong Bok area, where one Cambodian soldier was killed. Both nations have since deployed troops and restricted movement at several vital trade crossings.

Leaked Call Fuels Political Meltdown

The diplomatic feud intensified following a leaked phone call between former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and Thai Premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In the recording, Paetongtarn reportedly criticized her own military’s handling of the border standoff and discussed reopening borders—comments that ignited backlash at home.

One of Thailand’s coalition parties has already withdrawn from the ruling bloc, accusing the PM of damaging the country. The move has left Paetongtarn with a fragile majority, with other allies reportedly weighing their next steps.

Legal Front and Mutual Accusations

Cambodia has taken the dispute to the International Court of Justice, seeking adjudication over the contested Chong Bok region and three other disputed zones. Thailand, however, rejected the ICJ’s authority, exacerbating tensions.

Hun Manet insisted that no bilateral deal is needed to reopen the border. “Thailand must lift all restrictions first,” he said, adding Cambodia would reciprocate within five hours if that happened.

The Thai government condemned the leak as “unacceptable conduct between states,” saying it eroded trust and respect.

This latest flare-up adds to a long history of border tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors, with the disputed Preah Vihear temple case still fresh in regional memory. The new Shinawatra administration—already under scrutiny for its ties to the military and elite factions—is now facing one of its most severe challenges yet. The outcome may redefine the political map in Bangkok, where the balance of power remains volatile.