BANGKOK – Thailand has announced the closure of six permanent and 10 temporary border checkpoints with Cambodia, along with the suspension of temporary border passes for tourist sites near Preah Vihear Temple and Prasat Ta Muan Thom, in a move aimed at de-escalating tensions following a deadly military clash.

Cambodian Soldier Killed in Border Clash with Thai Troops

The decision comes after a recent firefight between Thai and Cambodian troops at the Chong Bok border pass in Ubon Ratchathani province, which left at least one Cambodian soldier dead. A security source stated that the closures are necessary to protect border communities and cross-border trade, as well as to prevent further nationalist-fueled confrontations.

BREAKING: The government is preparing to announce the closure of 6 permanent Thai-Cambodian border crossings and 10 temporary checkpoints after Cambodians stirred up nationalist sentiment, urging people not to buy Thai products, raising fears of potential clashes between the… pic.twitter.com/AME3aqLYHY

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) May 31, 2025

Among the shuttered crossings are major checkpoints such as Chong Sa-ngam in Si Sa Ket, Chong Chom in Surin, and Khlong Loek in Sa Kaeo. Temporary access points, including Chong An Ma in Ubon Ratchathani and Ban Ta Phraya in Sa Kaeo, will also be closed.

The suspension of border passes affects tourists visiting the ancient Preah Vihear Temple in Si Sa Ket and Prasat Ta Muan Thom in Surin—a move likely to impact local economies reliant on tourism. Authorities cited rising online nationalism and security risks as key reasons for the restrictions.

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The Thai government emphasized that the measures are temporary and aimed at stabilizing the border region while diplomatic discussions continue. No timeline has been provided for reopening the checkpoints.

-Thailand News (TN)