PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) – The Cambodian government has accused Thailand of escalating border tensions by imposing new restrictions that have effectively blocked nearly all land crossings, particularly affecting tourists traveling into Cambodia. This development comes amid deteriorating relations between the two neighboring countries following an armed confrontation on May 28, which resulted in the death of one Cambodian soldier in a disputed area along their shared border.

In response to the heightened tensions, on Monday, the Thai army implemented tighter restrictions at its border checkpoints with Cambodia, as instructed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The new measures restrict entry into Thailand to only students, medical patients, and individuals with essential needs, thereby preventing thousands of tourists from crossing the border.

Cambodian government spokesperson Pen Bona stated that Cambodia remains committed to resolving the conflict through diplomatic means. However, he expressed that tensions have significantly increased due to Thailand’s actions. He emphasized, "The Cambodian government has already stated that we will not initiate any border closure," adding that the country would lift restrictions if Thailand does the same first.

In retaliation to the ongoing border dispute, Cambodia has taken various countermeasures, including boycotting certain Thai internet services, banning the import of Thai fruits and vegetables, and blocking electricity and fuel supplies from Thailand. Prior to these actions, Cambodia relied on Thailand for about 30% of its gasoline and fuel imports.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited border troops and a temporary shelter accommodating thousands of civilians evacuated from the conflict zones. He affirmed that while Cambodia seeks to avoid war, "we cannot stand by and let us be abused."

Moreover, in conjunction with the border restrictions, Prime Minister Paetongtarn announced additional measures aimed at combating online scam operations based in Cambodia. These measures include blocking exports to Cambodia that could facilitate such activities and enhancing collaboration with other nations and international organizations to tackle cybercrime in Southeast Asia.

While acknowledging that Cambodia is being exploited by online scammers, Pen Bona pointed out that many of these operations are also situated in Thailand. He remarked, "This is a very shameful thing that is happening in Thailand, but they are trying to divert the story from Thailand to Cambodia."

Earlier in the year, Thailand had also enacted measures to curb online scam operations originating from neighboring Myanmar, which involved cutting off electricity, internet, and gas supplies to border towns associated with the scam syndicates.