NSC Approves Thai-Cambodian Border Fence, PM Anutin Warns Cambodia

On October 2, 2025, at Government House, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul chaired the 12th National Security Council (NSC) meeting of the year, which approved in principle the construction of a fence along the Thai-Cambodian border to strengthen national security and safeguard sovereignty. Anutin reaffirmed the government’s full support for the military and sent a stern warning to Cambodia, stressing that Thailand will not back down unless its conditions are met. He also confirmed that previous NSC resolutions on military measures, trade restrictions, and the opening and closing of border checkpoints remain in effect.

Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters has been tasked with determining the coordinates and design of the fence, which could be a standard barrier or an electronic fence with CCTV. Construction will begin near the Aranyaprathet border checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province, where the boundary line is clearly demarcated. The Thai-Cambodian border spans over 798 kilometers, from the “Emerald Triangle” in Ubon Ratchathani province, an unsettled 12-square-kilometer area where Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia converge, down to Boundary Marker 73 at Laem Saraphat Phit in Trat province, which connects to a still-contested maritime border. Disputed areas such as Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Sa Kaeo will not be included in the initial phase.

On the issue of removing Cambodian settlers from disputed territories, Anutin stressed that actions must comply with the law and humanitarian principles, as most residents are civilians, including children, women, and the elderly. Although an earlier deadline was set for October 10, Anutin signaled that the eviction may not proceed on that date.

Thailand’s strategy toward Cambodia will continue on dual tracks, diplomatic engagement and military reinforcement. At the UNGA, Thailand reiterated that it is not the aggressor but the victim of encroachment. Anutin declared that unless Cambodia withdraws heavy weapons and troops from disputed zones, Thailand will not respond to any of Cambodia’s demands. He emphasized firmly: “If they want to live like this, Thailand is ready. But if they want a better life for their people, they must accept our conditions.”

The meeting did not address the 2000-2001 Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) on border demarcation. Anutin stated that this falls under Parliament’s responsibility, while the previous Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) has completed its term and a new commission will be formed. The NSC also resolved to expedite compensation for residents in seven affected border provinces, assigning the Interior Ministry to support over 2,000 households. The definition of “indirect deaths,” such as fatalities linked to stress, will be included in the compensation scheme. The first round of payments is scheduled for October 6-7, based on registered households.

Additionally, the meeting approved a three-year (2025-2027) policy framework for development and administration in Thailand’s southern border provinces, aimed at improving security and quality of life. General Somsak Roongsita was appointed as the new head of the peace dialogue panel, a position left vacant for over a year, while Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, former commander of the 2nd Army Region, was named adviser to the Army Commander-in-Chief to strengthen overall national security capacity.

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Source of material: official media /online news