Thailand Coalition on Brink After PM’s Call with Cambodian Leader Leaks

Bangkok, Thailand – Teh stability of Thailand’s government coalition is in jeopardy following the exposure of a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Senate leader Hun Sen.The leaked call, revealed in a Facebook post by Hun Sen on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, has ignited political turmoil and raised questions about the Prime Minister’s conduct.

The 16-minute discussion between Shinawatra and Hun Sen centered on escalating border disputes that have strained relations between Thailand and Cambodia in recent weeks. Tensions flared after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a clash in May. During the call, shinawatra reportedly criticized a Thai military commander, accusing them of posturing and making unhelpful statements.

Political Fallout and Calls for Resignation

While Prime Minister Shinawatra has defended the phone call as a form of negotiation, opposition figures have condemned her actions, demanding her resignation on the grounds that she has compromised the integrity of the Thai military. The Bhumjaithai party, the second-largest member of the ruling coalition, withdrew from the alliance on Wednesday following the leak, delivering a significant blow to the Pheu Thai party’s position in parliament.

With Bhumjaithai’s departure,the coalition now holds only a slim majority in parliament. Further defections from coalition partners could led to its collapse. Two other parties within the Pheu Thai coalition are scheduled to meet on Thursday, June 19, 2025, to assess the situation.

Did you Know? Thailand has experienced 13 triumphant and 10 attempted military coups sence the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, highlighting the country’s history of political instability Council on Foreign Relations.

Ancient Ties and Current Tensions

The Shinawatra and Hun families have maintained a close relationship for decades.Hun Sen and Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn’s father and former Thai Prime Minister, were known to be close allies. Despite these long-standing ties, Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated earlier this month that her familial connections would not prevent her from defending Thailand’s interests.

However, critics have questioned the appropriateness of her tone and deference during the conversation with Hun Sen, notably given the sensitive nature of the border dispute. The current situation underscores the complex interplay of personal relationships and national interests in Southeast Asian politics.

Pro Tip: Monitoring political developments in Thailand requires understanding the influence of powerful families and the military’s role in shaping the country’s trajectory.

impact on Thailand-Cambodia Relations

The leaked phone call and subsequent political fallout could further strain relations between Thailand and Cambodia. The border dispute, wich has been simmering for weeks, has already led to increased military presence in the region. In early June 2025,Thailand closed two border posts following clashes with cambodian forces Reuters.

The incident highlights the fragility of regional stability and the potential for personal relationships to influence diplomatic outcomes. The coming days will be crucial in determining the future of Thailand’s government and its relationship with its neighbor, Cambodia.