Following deadly border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia that left 33 people dead, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued updated travel advisories for Indian nationals. The move comes amid rising geopolitical tensions in various regions, with the ministry urging Indian citizens to exercise caution and avoid travel to countries or regions currently facing conflict, instability, or unrest.
The recent violence erupted in late July 2025, with fighting concentrated along disputed sections of the Thailand-Cambodia border. Over the course of three days, 20 Thai soldiers and 13 Cambodians were reported dead, with both nations engaging in artillery fire and limited airstrikes. Though a ceasefire was agreed upon following mediation efforts led by ASEAN, the situation remains volatile.
In response, Indian embassies in Thailand and Cambodia issued urgent travel advisories, warning citizens to stay away from conflict-prone border zones. The MEA later released a consolidated advisory for several high-risk countries.
Reason: Ongoing border conflict with Cambodia involving artillery and airstrikes.
Advisory: Avoid border provinces including Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Sisaket, Buriram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat.
Reason: Armed clashes with Thailand at shared borders.
Advisory: Steer clear of all Cambodia–Thailand border regions. Major cities like Phnom Penh remain stable.
Reason: Civil war, severe security threats.
Advisory: Complete travel ban by air, land, or sea. Violators risk passport cancellation.
Reason: Military conflict with ethnic rebel groups.
Advisory: Avoid non-essential travel, especially near borders with India, China, and Thailand.
Reason: Terrorist activity and militia violence in select provinces.
Advisory: Avoid Nineveh, Salahuddin, Diyala, Al-Anbar, and Kirkuk. Travel elsewhere with caution.
Reason: Escalating war and collapse of basic infrastructure.
Advisory: Avoid all travel. Indians present should leave immediately.
Reason: Armed conflict and unstable political environment.
Advisory: Non-essential travel is strongly discouraged.
Reason: Increased tensions, especially near the Syrian border and in south Lebanon.
Advisory: Travel should be deferred.
Reason: Worsening political unrest, violent protests.
Advisory: Avoid all travel until further notice.
The MEA has reiterated its commitment to the safety of Indian citizens abroad. All travelers are advised to check the official MEA website and consult the nearest Indian embassy before making any international travel plans.
In a global environment marked by sudden flare-ups and fragile ceasefires, Indian authorities have emphasized that proactive awareness and timely decisions can prevent avoidable risks.
The updated advisories also include emergency contact numbers for Indian nationals in affected regions, ensuring swift assistance in case of crisis.