New Zealand Warns Citizens Against Travel to Conflict Zones in Southeast Asia

New Zealanders are being advised to avoid travel to Cambodia and Thailand due to escalating conflict between the two countries. The hostilities have resulted in at least 14 fatalities since fighting began on May 28, 2023. Reports indicate that Thailand has conducted airstrikes on Cambodian military positions, prompting retaliatory rocket and artillery fire from Cambodia, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP).

Travel Warnings and Safety Advice

A spokesperson for New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) expressed concern over the rising tensions. “SafeTravel advice has been updated and advises that the land border between Thailand and Cambodia is currently closed,” she stated. For safety reasons, the ministry urges travelers to avoid the affected areas until conditions improve.

New Zealanders in the region are encouraged to register their details on the SafeTravel website. The spokesperson confirmed that while MFAT has received inquiries from travelers since the escalation began, there are currently no active consular cases. “We advise travelers to monitor the situation closely and check with local authorities regarding the border status,” she added.

Background of the Conflict

The conflict revolves around the Emerald Triangle, a disputed area where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge. This territorial dispute has persisted for decades, flaring up intermittently, most recently prior to the current violence. The Thai Prime Minister’s office reported that a Cambodian artillery shell struck a civilian home in Thailand, resulting in the death of one individual, including injuries to a child and two others.

Both governments are blaming each other for the hostilities. Maly Socheata, a spokesperson for Cambodia’s defense ministry, stated, “The Thai military violated the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Cambodia by launching an armed assault on Cambodian forces.” She emphasized that Cambodian forces responded to defend their sovereignty in accordance with international law.

The Thai military, on the other hand, contends that the initial gunfire originated from Cambodian troops, accusing them of targeting civilians. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai of Thailand has called for careful handling of the situation, advocating for actions consistent with international law.

As the situation develops, the New Zealand government continues to support diplomatic efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) aimed at de-escalating the conflict. The ministry’s position underscores the importance of restraint and dialogue to address the ongoing tensions in the region.

The growing unrest in Cambodia and Thailand not only poses risks for travelers but also highlights the fragility of peace in this geopolitically sensitive area. As both nations navigate this crisis, the international community remains watchful for further developments.