Irish government issues travel warning as conflict escalates in Thailand

The conflict erupted yesterday morning

The BBC first reported on the outbreak of fighting between Thailand and Cambodia this morning at 6am IST, 12pm local time.

The two nations exchanged fire after tensions boiled over concerning a border dispute between the countries.

Since fighting broke out, 15 people have been killed many of which were civilians.

Now, the Irish government have issued a warning to people travelling to Thailand.

The south-eastern Asia country is a hugely popular travel hotspot for the Irish with an estimated 70,000 making the trip each year.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has updated their website to advise against all but essential travel to parts of Thailand, including the border area with Cambodia.

It advised: “We advise against all travel to the entirety of the border region between Thailand and Cambodia, where armed clashes have been taking place between Thai and Cambodian armed forces arising from escalating tensions related to longstanding border disputes.”

It added: "A number of suspected explosive devices have been detected by the Thai Security Forces, in a number of popular tourist locations in southern Thailand in the period since mid-June 2025. One incident occurred at Phuket Airport. Irish citizens are advised to be vigilant at all times.

“Additional security measures put in place in response to these incidents may require intending passengers to factor in extra time for security checks ahead of flights, so you should make sure to check with airlines and allow sufficient time at airports ahead of scheduled departures.

"Please follow the advice of Thai Authorities, avoid any large gatherings and be aware of your personal safety at all times.”

The dispute over borders in the area goes back to the days of French occupation in what was then known as Indochina.