Thai Government Faces Crisis After Leaked PM Border Call

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing a severe political crisis following the leak of a phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen discussing a contentious border dispute that resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The recording revealed Paetongtarn using conciliatory language toward Hun Sen, calling him 'uncle' and criticizing a Thai army commander, which sparked backlash from nationalists and military supporters who saw it as undermining Thailand's position. The controversy led to the exit of the major coalition partner Bhumjaithai party, significantly weakening her government's majority and prompting calls for her resignation amid fears of further instability or a snap election. Paetongtarn defended her comments as negotiation tactics aimed at peace but declared she would no longer hold private talks with Hun Sen due to trust issues. The crisis threatens to end the premiership of Paetongtarn, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and has raised concerns about the potential for military intervention, recalling Thailand's history of coups. Additional coalition parties are also considering leaving, which could hasten the government's collapse and deepen political turmoil.