Leaked Call Between Thai and Cambodian Leaders Sparks Political Crisis

A leaked phone conversation between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia's former Prime Minister Hun Sen has precipitated a significant political crisis in Thailand, leading to the withdrawal of a key coalition partner and escalating tensions between the neighboring countries.

On June 15, 2025, Prime Minister Paetongtarn engaged in a 17-minute private phone call with Hun Sen, who now serves as Cambodia's Senate President. The discussion, facilitated by Phnom Penh's Deputy Governor Khleang Huot as an interpreter, aimed to address escalating tensions following a fatal border clash on May 28, 2025, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.

During the call, Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as "uncle," reflecting the longstanding personal ties between their families. She expressed concerns over domestic criticism, stating, "The people in Thailand are saying that I should just go be the Cambodian prime minister instead." She also offered to assist Hun Sen, saying, "I will take care of anything you need."

On June 18, 2025, a nine-minute segment of this conversation was leaked. Hun Sen subsequently released the full recording on his Facebook page, explaining that he had recorded the call "to avoid any misunderstanding or misrepresentation in official matters."

The leak sparked significant controversy in Thailand. Critics accused Paetongtarn of compromising national sovereignty and undermining the military's authority. Particularly contentious was her reference to a Thai army commander as "an opponent," which was perceived as disparaging.

In response to the leak, the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest member of the ruling coalition, announced its withdrawal from the government on June 18, 2025. The party's statement emphasized that the conversation had impacted Thailand’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests. All Bhumjaithai ministers, including party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, resigned from their positions effective June 19, 2025.

This departure reduced the coalition's parliamentary majority to a slim margin, intensifying calls for Paetongtarn's resignation. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut urged the Prime Minister to dissolve Parliament and hold new elections, stating that the leaked phone call was "the last straw" that destroyed public trust.

Paetongtarn publicly apologized for the incident, expressing regret over the leak and reaffirming her commitment to national sovereignty. She clarified that her comments were negotiation tactics aimed at ensuring peace between the countries. However, she stated she would no longer engage in private talks with Hun Sen, citing trust issues.

The Thai Foreign Ministry summoned the Cambodian ambassador to deliver a protest letter, condemning the leak as "a breach of diplomatic etiquette, a serious violation of trust, and undermines conduct between two neighboring countries."

The political turmoil has had immediate economic repercussions. The Stock Exchange of Thailand index declined sharply over three consecutive trading days following the leak, reflecting investor anxiety over the government's stability.

Socially, the incident has led to increased public demonstrations. Hundreds of anti-government protesters gathered outside Government House, demanding Paetongtarn's resignation.

Thailand and Cambodia have a history of border disputes, notably around the Preah Vihear temple area. The current crisis echoes past tensions but is distinguished by the involvement of leaked private communications at the highest levels of government, adding a layer of personal diplomacy gone awry.

The leaked phone call between Prime Minister Paetongtarn and Hun Sen has precipitated a significant political crisis in Thailand, highlighting the delicate balance of diplomatic relations, the fragility of political coalitions, and the profound impact of private communications becoming public.