US State Dept: U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all travel to the area within 50 kilometers of the Thailand-Cambodia border

US State Dept: U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all travel to the area within 50 kilometers of the Thailand-Cambodia border

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens to avoid all travel to the area within 50 kilometers of the Thailand-Cambodia border. This comes amidst ongoing clashes between the two countries, which have resulted in casualties and evacuations [1].

The advisory, issued on July 24, follows reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire, along the border. The Thai government has ordered the evacuation of certain areas, and the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok has advised citizens to follow the directions of Thai security services and consult local government authorities for the latest information [1].

The Indian Embassy in Thailand has also issued a travel advisory, urging its nationals to avoid seven provinces in Thailand due to the ongoing unrest. These provinces include Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Sisaket, Buriram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat [2]. The Indian Embassy has suggested alternative destinations for Indian travelers, such as Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Vietnam [3].

The fighting between Thailand and Cambodia has been ongoing since May, with tensions escalating into full-scale clashes involving rocket launchers and fighter jets. The clashes have resulted in at least 16 people killed and tens of thousands displaced. Both countries have accused each other of firing the first shots that started the conflict [3].

The U.S. Embassy in Thailand has advised its citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and to follow the embassy's official social media channels for the latest information [1].

References:
[1] https://th.usembassy.gov/fighting-on-the-thailand-cambodia-border/
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/indian-mission-in-thailand-issues-travel-advisory-amidst-ongoing-unrest-125072500395_1.html
[3] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/thailand-is-risky-for-tourists-here-are-safer-cheaper-alternatives-for-indians/articleshow/122897482.cms