Australia Warns Against Travel as Thai-Cambodian Conflict Intensifies

Cambodia has been accused of firing rockets at a Thai village and hospital.

Visitors rest at the top of the stairs at Wat Saket Buddhist temple in Bangkok on July 8, 2025. Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP via Getty Images

Foreign Minister Penny Wong has expressed deep concern over intensifying clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces, warning Australians to avoid volatile border regions as violence escalates.

Fighting has erupted in a long-disputed border zone, leaving at least a dozen Thai nationals dead, most of them civilians, and prompting a full closure of Thailand’s border with Cambodia.

In a post on X, Wong urged restraint from both sides and announced changes to travel advice for Australians in the region.

“Australia is deeply concerned by escalating tensions across the Thai-Cambodian border, including reports of injuries and loss of life. We urge both sides to de-escalate and resolve border issues peacefully,” Wong said on X on July 25.

Travel Warnings Upgraded for Border Regions

In response to the violence, Australia’s SmartTraveller website now advises nationals to reconsider travelling to specific Thai provinces—Buriram, Si Saket, Surin and Ubon Ratchathani—due to rising military activity.

Those planning travel to Cambodia are also being urged to avoid the northern provinces of Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey.

Thai and Cambodian troops have exchanged fire in the contested region, with Cambodian forces accused of launching rockets into Thai territory and striking a hospital.

In response, Thai forces conducted air strikes on Cambodian military positions. The clashes mark one of the most serious flare-ups in years, rooted in decades of unresolved border demarcation.

Authorities have warned that violence could escalate further, with reports of landmines and continued military operations. Border checkpoints have been closed without notice, and there are fears that conflict may spread beyond the immediate combat zones.

Travellers already in Thailand are being advised to follow instructions from local authorities, stay informed through reliable news sources, and take extra precautions for their personal safety.

Thai officials have also ramped up security in major tourist destinations due to fears of potential terror threats.

Explosive devices were recently discovered near Phuket International Airport and in tourist hotspots, including Krabi and Phang Nga. Police have since made arrests and diffused several devices, but security remains tight.

Travellers are being told to arrive early for flights and expect delays due to heightened airport screening.

Australian Tourist Found Dead in Phuket Hotel

In a separate incident, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is assisting the family of a 21-year-old Australian man who was found dead in his Phuket hotel room on July 23, just one day before he was due to fly home.

The man was discovered by housekeeping staff, lying on his bed with his phone still connected to a call.

Thai authorities confirmed there were no signs of foul play or robbery. Over-the-counter painkillers were found at the scene, reportedly taken after the man was injured in a motorcycle crash the previous day. No alcohol or illegal substances were recovered.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian who died in Thailand,” a DFAT spokesperson said, but declined to comment further, citing privacy obligations.