THAILAND has assigned its two primary military task forces to take full control of all border crossings along its frontier with Cambodia, following heightened tensions and a fatal incident involving soldiers from both nations.
Spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree announced that Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, General Pana Claewplodtook, has signed an order granting the Burapha and Suranaree task forces authority to oversee the opening and closure of all border entry points.
“This order also empowers them to establish appropriate measures, criteria, procedures, and conditions based on the security risk and enforcement requirements specific to each location,” said Winthai in a statement issued on Saturday.
He added, “This step is vital to protect Thailand’s national interests and ensure the safety and well-being of communities along the border.”
The decision follows a 6 June directive by Thailand’s National Security Council, which officially appointed the Royal Thai Army as the lead agency managing border control operations. All relevant departments are now required to comply fully with the military’s regulations.
Members of the public seeking updates can access official announcements via the Royal Thai Army website at [www.rta.mi.th](http://www.rta.mi.th).
The new security measures come in the wake of a deadly clash between Thai and Cambodian troops on 28 May near Ubon Ratchathani province in northeast Thailand and Preah Vihear province in northern Cambodia. The incident resulted in the reported death of a Cambodian soldier.
In response, Cambodia announced its intention to escalate the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), while Thailand has reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution grounded in international law and existing bilateral agreements.
Both nations have agreed to resume diplomatic engagement through their Joint Boundary Commission, with a key meeting scheduled for 14 June in Phnom Penh.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, speaking after performing Aidiladha prayers IN Putrajaya, expressed support for the upcoming talks.
“I spoke with both the Prime Ministers (of Thailand and Cambodia)… they have taken several measures that we support, namely the June 14 talks regarding the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute.
“I’m ready to follow and provide the cooperation (that is) required. So far, both governments have taken the stance of continuing negotiations amicably,” said Anwar.
As the incoming ASEAN Chair for 2025, Malaysia is prepared to monitor the negotiations and support regional diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue peacefully. - June 7, 2025
