The Department of Foreign Affairs has warned against all travel to the border region between Thailand and Cambodia as a result of an outbreak of armed clashes in the region yesterday.
“We advise against all travel to the entirety of the border region between Thailand and Cambodia, where armed clashes have been taking place between Thai and Cambodian armed forces arising from escalating tensions related to longstanding border disputes,” the DFA advice reads.
Tensions between the two southeast Asian nations have boiled over into conflict at multiple points along the contested border, the heaviest conflict seen between the neighbouring countries in over a decade.
As fighting entered its second day, heavy artillery fire was exchanged by both sides, and reports emerged of at least 20 people killed in the hostilities.
Thailand has declared martial law in eight border districts alongside Cambodia, while an estimated 130,000 people have been displaced.
“The clashes have resulted in fatalities, including civilian fatalities. Border crossings are subject to restrictions and closures, and there may also be a possibility of disruption to air travel between the two countries. We strongly advise citizens against any attempt to approach or cross the border,” the DFA said in its travel alert issued for the region.
“The situation remains very fluid and Irish citizens in Thailand or intending to visit the country should pay close attention to authoritative sources of information and advice, and remain vigilant at all times,” it warned.
A number of countries have advised their citizens against travelling near the Thai-Cambodian border, including the United States, which advised its citizens against travelling within 50km of the border, citing “the military conflict in the region”.
The Irish embassy in Thailand describes the country as “a very popular destination for Irish holidaymakers”, noting that approximately 70,000 Irish tourists visit Thailand each year.
Irish travellers are also warned of a “heightened risk” of terrorism in Thailand currently, the Department warning that a number of “suspected explosive devices” have been detected at multiple popular locations in southern Thailand since mid-June 2025.