Thailand Considers Maritime Blockade as Border Conflict With Cambodia Escalates

Thailand Considers Maritime Blockade as Border Conflict With Cambodia Escalates

Bangkok, 14 December 2025 — Thailand is weighing measures to restrict maritime access to Cambodia through the Gulf of Thailand as fighting along the two countries’ shared border intensifies, according to regional security sources and local media reports.

The move follows recent Thai military operations, including air and artillery strikes near the border, which Thai authorities say were carried out in self-defence after clashes that resulted in casualties. Cambodia has rejected Thailand’s account and accused Bangkok of escalating the conflict.

Thai officials have indicated that a potential maritime blockade would be aimed at disrupting the flow of fuel and military supplies to Cambodia rather than imposing a full naval shutdown. No formal declaration of a blockade has been announced, but preparations and discussions have raised regional concern.

However, since the conflict erupted back in July, the Cambodia side has stopped imported oil from Thailand after Samdech Techo Hun Sen, the President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia advised the government to block this strategic commodity due to security concerns.

The escalation has prompted warnings from neighbouring countries and international observers, who fear that further military action could destabilise mainland Southeast Asia. Diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far failed, with both sides maintaining hardened positions.

Thousands of civilians have reportedly been displaced on both sides of the border as fighting continues. The situation remains fluid, with regional bodies monitoring developments closely amid calls for restraint and renewed dialogue.