Thai PM Faces Coalition Collapse After Leaked Cambodia Call

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing a severe political crisis after a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen triggered the withdrawal of the Bhumjaithai Party, the coalition's second-largest partner. In the call, Paetongtarn appeared deferential to Hun Sen and criticized a senior Thai military official, which caused outrage among her coalition partners and the military, leading to accusations that she undermined Thailand's sovereignty and integrity. The Bhumjaithai Party cited damage to Thailand's national interests as the reason for its exit, and other coalition members such as the United Thai Nation and Democrat parties are considering their future, which could leave Paetongtarn with a minority government and force her resignation or a new election. Despite her public apology, Paetongtarn's position is weakened by a stalling economy, falling popularity, and fears of military clashes amid the border dispute with Cambodia. Political analysts describe her premiership as untenable, with the leak deepening divisions and instability in the government formed just 10 months ago. Protests and political uncertainty have risen, and Thailand's financial markets have reacted negatively to the turmoil.