Thailand-Cambodia Border Closure Strands Thousands and Halts Trade

Thailand abruptly closed the Baan Khlong Luek checkpoint with Cambodia in Sa Kaeo province on June 7, stranding thousands, including Thai gamblers in Poipet and Cambodian vendors in Thailand. The closure followed rising border tensions after a recent military clash in Ubon Ratchathani. Thai and Cambodian forces jointly sealed the area and shut the Khlong Luek–Poipet Friendship Bridge. New restricted crossing hours (8am–4pm) replaced the usual 6am–10pm schedule. Heavy congestion and confusion ensued, with traffic stretching for kilometres as authorities struggled to manage the situation.