Thailand keeps Cambodia border closed despite foreign pressure
Army demands weapons withdrawal, mine clearance and anti-fraud measures before considering reopening
Thailand’s army is standing firm on the closure of the border with Cambodia, despite alleged pressure from international actors, including Japan. Military leaders have set clear conditions: withdrawal of heavy weaponry, verified mine clearance, and the dismantling of fraud operations. Only then will a potential reopening be considered.
Border conflict with deadly consequences
Since May 2025, tensions along the Thai-Cambodian frontier have escalated into deadly clashes. Contested areas such as the Ta Muen Thom Temple and Ubon Ratchathani have seen fatalities and injuries on both sides, including Thai soldiers and civilians. Rocket attacks on Thai installations have further inflamed the situation.
On June 7, the Thai government officially handed border control to the Royal Thai Army (RTA), which immediately closed all crossings—leaving only humanitarian exceptions open. The aim: protect national security while applying economic pressure on Cambodia.
Three tough conditions for reopening
Lieutenant Colonel Nattaphon Nakphanit outlined the army’s demands on the official RTA Facebook page:
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Withdrawal of heavy weapons from the border region
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Verified mine clearance in disputed zones
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Intensified action against Cambodian-based online fraud operations
“These measures are essential for peace and security at the border,” the officer stated. Reopening will only be discussed once progress is evident.
International pressure from Japan
Japan has actively sought to influence the situation. During a General Border Committee (GBC) meeting in Koh Kong from September 7-9, Cambodian Defence Minister General Tea Seiha presented Japan’s proposal to reopen borders for essential trade.
Japanese investors reportedly lobbied Thai authorities, warning that blocked trade would harm production and exports. The RTA, however, considers such pressure premature.
Nationalist reactions in Thailand
Opposition also comes from within Thailand. Ultra-nationalists accuse Japan of prioritising economic interests over Thai sovereignty. Local committees in Chanthaburi and Trat stress that disputes in sensitive areas like Sa Kaeo and Ban Nong Chan must first be resolved. Even in less risky provinces, a reopening could be delayed for months.
Both nations have agreed to de-escalation measures through joint patrols and information sharing on fraud centres. A planned meeting in Sa Kaeo on September 16 could offer a breakthrough. Analysts warn, however, that without compromise on both sides, economic losses may continue to mount. The Thai army remains committed to security first, using the closed border as leverage in negotiations.