BANGKOK, Thailand: This week, Thailand implemented land border restrictions, including a ban on tourists traveling to Cambodia, as the two nations retaliate amid an ongoing border dispute.

Tensions have risen since an armed clash on May 28, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier in a disputed area. Although both countries have agreed to de-escalate the situation, they continue to threaten and enact measures that keep tensions elevated.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that Thailand would enhance border screening and prohibit tourists from leaving, allowing only students, medical patients, and individuals purchasing essential goods to cross the border.

These restrictions are intended to prevent people from accessing Cambodia's popular casinos; however, it appears that all tourists will be barred.

The Thai army confirmed that the new measures are being implemented at all land border checkpoints between Thailand and Cambodia across five provinces, restricting crossings to only those with essential needs.

In retaliation, Cambodia has boycotted some Thai internet services and halted the import of electricity and fuel from Thailand, despite previously relying on Thailand for around 30% of its gasoline and other fuel supplies.

Paetongtarn also indicated that Thailand may restrict exports that could support scam operations in Cambodia and intends to collaborate with other nations and international organizations to combat cybercrime in the region.

Earlier this year, Thailand enacted measures to target online scams originating from Myanmar by cutting off electricity, internet, and gas supplies to areas associated with these schemes. Her remarks suggest similar actions could soon target scam operations in Cambodia as well.

An April report by the United Nations identified Cambodia as a central point for various scam operations, where workers use online platforms to deceive victims with fake romantic proposals, fraudulent investments, and illegal gambling services.

Paetongtarn has faced criticism for her perceived leniency toward Cambodia, particularly from right-wing nationalists who oppose her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

A leaked phone conversation between Paetongtarn and Hun Sen, Cambodia's Senate President and a former long-serving prime minister, generated outrage and calls for her resignation.

Critics accused her of trying to placate Hun Sen, describing her comments about a Thai army commander in the conflict area as portraying Thailand as weak. In response, several nationalist activist groups are organizing a rally this week demanding her resignation.