Thai Military Chiefs Vote to Indefinitely Close Cambodia Border
BANGKOK — Thailand’s military commanders have unanimously agreed to indefinitely close all border checkpoints with Cambodia and erect extensive fencing along the disputed frontier, citing national security threats following recent deadly clashes. The decision was reached during a high-level meeting at the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters attended by both serving and newly appointed military leaders.
Gen Songwit Noonphukdi, Chief of the Defence Forces, opened the meeting by honoring 15 soldiers and civilians killed in recent border skirmishes. The committee concluded that all permanent and trade crossings will remain shut until Cambodia is no longer deemed a threat, with the closure effective immediately pending defence minister approval.
In addition to the shutdown, the committee approved two critical measures: construction of fencing in mutually agreed border zones and enhanced patrols and surveillance in contested areas. Tactical roads will also be built along the entire border to improve mobility and response capabilities. A new rules of engagement framework, based on international standards, was adopted to authorize immediate self-defence operations against any hostile acts.
The commanders of the three Thai armed forces have agreed unanimously that all border checkpoints with Cambodia will remain closed until the border situation has eased or Cambodia stops posing a threat to Thailand.
The commanders of the army, navy and air force met today at the… pic.twitter.com/hIBMsZ0VON
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The decisions await formal endorsement by Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit, part of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s newly endorsed cabinet. The move signals a significant escalation in Thailand’s response to border tensions, which have intensified over territorial disputes and recent violent incidents.
Thailand Accuses Cambodia of Using Civilians to Provoke Border Clashes
On Friday, the army installed the first CCTV-equipped pole near the main Cambodian checkpoint to bolster surveillance. The measures reflect a hardening stance toward Cambodia, with Thailand prioritizing border security amid fragile diplomatic relations. The closure is expected to impact cross-border trade and travel, though officials emphasize national security concerns override economic considerations.
-Thailand News (TN)
