Photo: Shutterstock Security Tensions Mount: The security tension at the border between Thailand and Cambodia is escalating. Today (July 25), the United States issued an official travel warning urging its citizens to completely avoid traveling to the border area, within 50 kilometers between the two countries.
The announcement follows a surge in the ongoing military conflict, which includes reported incidents of mutual firing, force intrusions, increased military movement in the area, and severe movement restrictions.
In response to the escalation, the Royal Thai Government announced a full closure of land and maritime border crossings in the Chanthaburi and Trat provinces.
In addition to the security lockdown, the Thai Ministry of Health announced the full or partial closure of 11 hospitals in areas near the border.
The local Ministry of Education ordered the temporary closure of 751 schools in the provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Buriram, Surin, Sa Kaeo, and Chanthaburi.
The U.S. emphasized that American citizens currently in the area or planning to visit in the coming days should adhere to instructions from local security services and consult authorities for up-to-date information.
According to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, this is a preventive measure due to "the tangible danger to human life in unstable friction zones."
As a reminder, the Foreign Ministry also issued a severe travel warning to Israelis due to the tension developing into war between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to yesterday's Foreign Ministry statement, due to increasing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, it is advised that Israeli travelers avoid reaching or staying near the border area between the two nations, especially in the northeastern provinces of Thailand and northwestern Cambodia.
The emphasis is on avoiding staying near border crossings, most of which are currently closed.
Additionally, the Foreign Ministry recommends following local media reports and adhering to security instructions as they are published. It should be noted that there are no special instructions for other parts of the country, including Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, and the islands.