Hospitals in northeastern Thailand continue to be shut down due to border disputes
Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have led to the closure or partial suspension of several hospitals in the northeastern provinces of Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani. The exact number of hospitals affected varies, with reports suggesting anywhere from 9 to 12 hospitals have been closed or partially suspended[1][2][3][4][5].
As of late July 2025, the Ministry of Public Health reported that 9 hospitals were completely closed, while 11 were partially suspended[1][2]. Another report states that 11 hospitals had full or partial closures earlier in the conflict[4]. More recent updates indicate that some hospitals have resumed operations, with about 3 still fully closed and 12 partially functional[5]. Additionally, it is reported that 7 hospitals remain closed specifically in the four northeastern provinces[3].
The specific hospitals that have been closed are not specified, but the Ministry has confirmed the closure of Ban Kruat Hospital and Lahansai Hospital in Buri Ram, Kantharalak Hospital in Si Sa Ket, Phanom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin, and Nachaluai Hospital, Namkhun Hospital, and Namyuen Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani[1]. However, the current status of these hospitals is not known.
One hospital, Kap Choeng Hospital in Surin, has reopened only its emergency department, while the status of its non-emergency departments remains unclear[1]. Meanwhile, four subdistrict hospitals in an unspecified location have fully resumed operations[1].
The closures of these healthcare facilities are likely due to the escalation of border tensions with Cambodia. Unfortunately, the specific reasons for the closure of each hospital are not provided.
The civilian toll due to the conflict is significant. As of July 31, 2025, a total of 17 civilians have been killed, including 14 directly impacted by the border conflict and 3 indirectly[1]. Injuries include 12 seriously injured, 13 moderately injured, and 13 with minor injuries[1]. Nine patients remain hospitalized, including six in critical condition[1].
In conclusion, the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has severely disrupted healthcare services in the northeastern provinces, with around 9 to 12 hospitals closed or partially suspended. The civilian toll stands at 17 deaths and multiple injuries due to the conflict as of the end of July 2025[1][4][5].
- The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, a general news topic, has resulted in the closure or partial suspension of hospitals in several provinces, a significant political issue that impacts war-and-conflicts because it affects the provision of healthcare services.
- The closures of hospitals in the northeastern provinces, primarily due to border tensions with Cambodia, are causing a rise in civilian casualties, with 17 deaths and multiple injuries reported so far, highlighting the impact of politics on the human cost of war-and-conflicts.
