Leaked Call Deepens Thailand's Political Crisis Amidst Border Tensions

Thailand is facing a deepening political crisis following the leak of a private conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia's former Prime Minister Hun Sen. The disclosure has intensified domestic unrest and strained international relations amid escalating border tensions.

The leaked phone call, in which Prime Minister Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as "uncle" and criticized a Thai military commander, has led to significant political fallout. The Bhumjaithai Party's withdrawal from the ruling coalition has left the government with a fragile majority, while border disputes with Cambodia have resulted in economic repercussions and heightened diplomatic tensions.

Background on Thai-Cambodian Relations

The territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has deep historical roots, primarily centered around the Preah Vihear Temple. In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the temple belonged to Cambodia, but ambiguities regarding the surrounding land have led to intermittent tensions. Between 2008 and 2011, these disputes escalated into armed skirmishes, resulting in casualties on both sides. The ICJ reaffirmed its 1962 ruling in 2011, urging both nations to withdraw military forces from the area.

In early 2025, tensions resurfaced. On February 13, Thai soldiers prevented Cambodian tourists from singing their national anthem at the disputed Ta Muen Thom Temple, exacerbating diplomatic strains. The situation deteriorated further on May 28, when a brief skirmish between Cambodian and Thai soldiers resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. Both nations accused each other of initiating the conflict.

Details of the Leaked Phone Call

On June 15, 2025, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra engaged in a 17-minute private phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President and former Prime Minister Hun Sen. Khleang Huot, Deputy Governor of Phnom Penh and an advisor to Hun Sen, served as the interpreter during the call. Hun Sen recorded the conversation and later shared it with approximately 80 individuals, including politicians and military officials.

The call was leaked on June 18, revealing several contentious remarks by Paetongtarn:

• She addressed Hun Sen as "uncle," reflecting their personal rapport due to Hun Sen's longstanding friendship with her father, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
• Paetongtarn expressed frustration over domestic criticism, stating, "The people in Thailand are saying that I should just go be the Cambodian prime minister instead."
• She criticized Thai military commander Boonsin Padklang, accusing him of making statements "not beneficial to the nation" to "look cool," and referred to him as part of the "opposing side."

Immediate Political Fallout

The leak triggered significant political repercussions:

• Bhumjaithai Party's Withdrawal: On June 18, the Bhumjaithai Party, holding 69 seats in the House of Representatives, announced its withdrawal from the ruling coalition, citing the leaked conversation as damaging to Thailand's reputation and national dignity. This departure left the Pheu Thai-led government with a fragile parliamentary majority.
• Calls for Resignation: Opposition leaders, protesters, and some senators called for Paetongtarn's resignation or a new election. Activist groups planned protests demanding her resignation.
• Government's Response: Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced a cabinet reshuffle to stabilize the coalition and maintain governance.

Escalating Border Tensions

The crisis was further compounded by ongoing border disputes with Cambodia:

• May 28, 2025: A fatal clash resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.
• Border Restrictions: In response to escalating tensions, Thailand imposed new land border restrictions, limiting crossings to essential needs such as medical treatment and education. This move aimed to curb visits to Cambodian casinos and prevent exports that could support scam operations.
• Cambodia's Retaliation: Cambodia suspended imports of Thai fuel and gas and restricted Thai agricultural products, escalating tensions and threatening bilateral trade valued at $10.4 billion.

Economic and Diplomatic Implications

The crisis had immediate economic and diplomatic consequences:

• Stock Market Impact: On June 23, the Stock Exchange of Thailand index fell to its lowest point in over five years, dropping below 1,063 points, reflecting investor concerns over political instability.
• Strained Diplomatic Relations: The leak and subsequent actions have strained diplomatic relations between Thailand and Cambodia, with both nations taking measures that could further escalate tensions.

Historical Context and Comparisons

Thailand has a history of political instability and military coups. Paetongtarn's father, Thaksin Shinawatra, was ousted in a 2006 coup, and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, faced a similar fate in 2014. The current crisis echoes past events, with fears of potential military involvement and a judiciary-led removal reminiscent of previous leadership oustings.

Public Sentiment and Media's Role

Public protests and nationalist rhetoric have been on the rise, with media coverage influencing public opinion and political outcomes. The leak has intensified scrutiny of the government's handling of diplomatic relations and border security.

Conclusion

The leaked phone call between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia's Hun Sen has precipitated a multifaceted crisis in Thailand, intertwining political instability, economic repercussions, and diplomatic tensions. The unfolding events underscore the delicate balance required in international diplomacy and the profound impact of leadership decisions on national and regional stability.