As tensions rise between Cambodia and Thailand over escalating border clashes, the Indian government has advised its citizens in Cambodia to stay away from conflict-prone areas near the Thai border.
On July 26, 2025, the Indian Embassy in Phnom Penh issued a public notice urging Indian nationals to avoid unnecessary travel to areas near Cambodia’s border with Thailand. This comes in the wake of violent confrontations between Cambodian and Thai forces, with both sides exchanging fire and reports of military action intensifying over the last few days.
The embassy stressed that the situation near the border is volatile, and safety cannot be guaranteed in those regions.
India’s Earlier Warning to Travelers in Thailand
This alert follows an earlier advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in Bangkok just a day earlier, on July 25, asking Indian tourists and residents to avoid traveling to seven Thai provinces bordering Cambodia. These include:
Ubon Ratchathani
Surin
Sisaket
Buriram
Sa Kaeo
Chanthaburi
Trat
The situation in these areas has become increasingly unstable due to border skirmishes and military mobilization.
The Ongoing Border Conflict
What began as a localized border issue quickly escalated into full-fledged military engagement. According to reports, Cambodian rocket strikes triggered a strong response from Thailand, which deployed fighter jets and artillery in retaliation. Both nations are now engaged in an increasingly tense standoff.
Casualties have been reported on both sides:
In Thailand, at least 14 people have lost their lives, including civilians and one soldier. Dozens more have been injured.
In Cambodia, government sources report at least 8 civilian deaths, and many more have been wounded or displaced.
The fighting has forced thousands of families on both sides to evacuate their homes. Cambodian officials estimate that over 30,000 people have been displaced within their territory, while Thailand is reportedly managing over 100,000 internal refugees.
Diplomatic Fallout and Global Reaction
The military conflict has triggered a sharp breakdown in diplomatic ties, with both countries expelling each other’s ambassadors. Tensions remain high, and international organizations, including the United Nations, are closely monitoring the developments.
Several major nations, including the United States, China, Japan, and France, have called for immediate de-escalation and a return to dialogue. The UN Security Council held an emergency session to discuss the crisis, warning of the broader risk to regional peace and stability.
What the Indian Embassies Are Advising
For Indians in Cambodia:
Avoid travel to border areas, especially regions close to Thailand.
Stay updated on local developments through news and official advisories.
In case of emergency, contact the Indian Embassy in Phnom Penh:
Phone: +855 92881676
Email: cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in
For Indians in Thailand:
Stay clear of the seven listed provinces bordering Cambodia.
Follow safety instructions from Thai authorities and monitor reliable sources like the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for updates.
Avoid any non-essential travel in affected areas until the situation stabilizes.
This is one of the most serious escalations between Thailand and Cambodia in years, reviving unresolved border tensions that many hoped were behind them. For Indian travelers, students, and business professionals living in or visiting these countries, staying alert and avoiding high-risk zones is essential.
The Indian government is actively monitoring the situation and providing support through its embassies. Citizens are encouraged to stay in touch with diplomatic missions and follow verified updates to stay safe.
