On December 16, 2025, the US Embassy in Thailand took place issued a new security alarm as armed clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border continue to increase, with reports of ongoing cross-border fires and an unstable security environment in neighboring provinces.
What the advice says
Dated in the warning December 16US officials said they are monitoring reports of a “significant escalation” along the border and urged US citizens to avoid all travel within 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) of the Thailand-Cambodia border due to active hostilities and an unpredictable security situation.
The advisory also warns that the US government has done so limited ability to provide emergency services in affected counties and urges Americans in or near affected areas to follow local safety instructions and monitor official updates.
Areas to avoid on both sides of the border
Thailand (border and adjacent provinces identified in official guidelines):
- Ubon Ratchathani
- Si Sa Ket
- Surin
- Buri Ram
- Sa Kaeo
- Chantaburi
- Trat
Cambodia (border provinces highlighted in reporting and official updates):
- Banteay Meanchey (including disruption around Poipet)
- Oddar Meanchey
- Preah Vihear
- Battambang
- Pailin
- Pursat
- Ko Kong
Recent updates on the conflict
Reuters (December 16): Thailand said it was in the process of repatriation 6,000 civilians stranded at the Poipet crossing after Cambodia closed the checkpoint amid fighting that has spread to several points along the border. Reuters also reported this mass displacement and the rising number of fatalities, while regional diplomatic activities – including a planned ASEAN meeting hosted by Malaysia – have been discussed as fighting enters a second week. Source: Reuters
Associated Press (December 15): Cambodian officials claimed that Thai air operations had been affected deeper into Cambodian territoryincluding areas near shelters for displaced civilians in provinces such as Siem Reap, while Thailand insisted the attacks targeted military targets. AP reported continued civilian risks, infrastructure damage and a growing humanitarian burden related to the border fighting. Source: AP News
The Guardian (December 11): The Guardian reported that displacement has increased in the US hundreds of thousands while exchanges of artillery and air power are exacerbating the crisis, with violence described as some of the worst in years and noting wider political and regional repercussions beyond the immediate border zone. Source: The Guardian
