Thai PM Apologises as Coalition Quits, Government Faces Crisis

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra apologized for a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen that has sparked widespread anger and triggered a political crisis, putting her government on the brink of collapse. The conservative Bhumjaithai party, the main coalition partner, withdrew its support citing damage to Thailand's sovereignty and the army's dignity, severely weakening Paetongtarn's fragile coalition. In the call, Paetongtarn addressed Hun Sen as "uncle" and referred to a Thai army commander as her opponent, remarks that fueled public criticism and social media backlash. Despite her apology and a show of unity with military chiefs, calls are mounting for her resignation or a snap election, which seems likely given the loss of Bhumjaithai's 69 parliamentary seats. The political instability comes as Thailand struggles to boost its faltering economy amid concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's stringent trade tariffs. Analysts suggest that the leak and ensuing controversy have handed an advantage to ultra-royalist factions, further complicating the coalition government's survival.