Date: July 28, 2025
Byline: Staff Writer, International News Desk
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of State issued heightened travel advisories for Thailand and Cambodia on July 25, warning American citizens to “exercise increased caution” due to escalating tensions and security concerns along the two countries’ shared border.
Both Southeast Asian nations have been moved to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution on the State Department’s four-tier travel advisory system. However, the situation is significantly more severe in the region near their contested border, where the advisory escalates to Level 4: Do Not Travel — the highest level — due to ongoing armed conflict.
Border Clashes Trigger Concerns
The advisory follows reports of renewed skirmishes between Thai and Cambodian military forces in areas near the provinces of Sa Kaeo and Surin in Thailand, and Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey in Cambodia. These provinces lie within the 50-kilometer exclusion zone now under the Level 4 warning.
“Do not travel to areas within 50 kilometers of the Thai-Cambodian border due to ongoing fighting between Thai and Cambodian military forces,” the advisory on Thailand reads.
While both governments have downplayed the scale of the conflict, local and international observers have noted rising tensions over territorial disputes, border patrol operations, and military build-ups that have intensified since early July.
Crime and Landmine Threats in Cambodia
Beyond the border clashes, the State Department cited high crime rates and the lingering danger of landmines as reasons for caution in Cambodia. Although major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap remain relatively calm, rural regions — particularly in the northwest — continue to face challenges stemming from decades of conflict.
“Criminal activity, including sexual assault and armed robbery, occurs in both urban and rural areas,” the Cambodia advisory states. “Landmines and unexploded ordnance are also a threat in remote provinces, especially near the Thai border.”
Thailand Faces Political Unrest
In Thailand, the advisory notes potential civil unrest amid an increasingly tense political climate. Protests have been reported in Bangkok and other major cities in recent weeks, with demonstrators calling for government reforms and criticizing military involvement in domestic politics.
While demonstrations are generally peaceful, the State Department warns that they “can turn confrontational and escalate into violence,” urging travelers to stay away from large gatherings and follow local media for updates.
Travel and Safety Recommendations
The State Department advises U.S. citizens currently in or planning to travel to Thailand or Cambodia to:
- Avoid all travel to the 50-kilometer border zone.
- Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
- Monitor local news outlets and follow guidance from local authorities.
- Reconsider non-essential travel, especially to rural or conflict-prone areas.
Travelers are also encouraged to purchase travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, particularly in light of the limited infrastructure in border areas and the potential for sudden conflict escalation.
Diplomatic Efforts and Regional Impact
The U.S. has called for restraint and dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia, urging both nations to resolve their disputes through diplomatic channels. Regional analysts warn that the border tensions, if left unresolved, could further destabilize Southeast Asia and impact neighboring countries such as Laos and Vietnam.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments could prompt an update to the advisory level. Travelers and expatriates are urged to remain vigilant.