Due to increasing tensions in their border dispute, Thailand started to enforce strict land border controls on Monday, which stopped tourists from entering Cambodia, a move seen as a form of retaliation.

After an armed clash on May 28, where a Cambodian soldier was killed in a small, disputed area, the relationship between the two countries has worsened significantly. Although they have agreed to reduce the conflict, both sides continue to take or threaten actions that keep tensions high.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Monday that Thailand will increase checks at its land borders and prevent tourists from leaving. She stated that only students, people needing medical treatment, and those who need to buy important goods would be allowed to enter or leave Thailand.

She stated that the measures were intended to stop people from going to Cambodia's profitable casinos, but it looked like all tourists would be prevented from entering.

In a statement released on Monday, the Thai army announced the implementation of enhanced border controls at all land checkpoints between Thailand and Cambodia across five provinces, restricting passage to essential travel only.

Due to the border dispute, Cambodia has responded by boycotting some Thai internet services and stopping electricity and fuel supplies from Thailand. This action significantly affects Cambodia's energy sector, as it previously imported 30% of its gasoline and fuel from Thailand.

Paetongtarn announced on Monday that Thailand plans to consider stopping exports that could help scam operations in Cambodia. Additionally, Thailand will work with other countries and international groups to fight cybercrime originating in Southeast Asia.

Earlier this year, Thailand began to take strong action against online scam operations in nearby Myanmar, stopping the supply of electricity, internet, and gas to border towns where these scams were located.

A recent UN report stated that Cambodia is a central location for elaborate scam operations. In these operations, people are forced to work online, tricking victims with fake romantic stories, misleading investment offers, and illegal gambling websites.

Paetongtarn has faced criticism for what is seen as a soft approach to Cambodia, especially from right-wing nationalists who have long been against her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

A private phone call last week between Paetongtarn and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, who was Cambodia's prime minister for more than forty years, caused a lot of anger and led to calls for Paetongtarn to resign.

Critics accused Paetongtarn of trying to please Hun Sen, who was a long-time friend of her father. They argued that her calling a Thai army commander in charge of the disputed border area "an opponent" made Thailand appear weak. As a result, several nationalist activist groups have planned a rally this week to demand her resignation.