Fact Check: Cambodia bans Thai films and cuts internet bandwidth in retaliation.

Fact Check: Cambodia bans Thai films and cuts internet bandwidth in retaliation

What We Know

Recent reports confirm that Cambodia has officially banned Thai movies and television shows, alongside cutting international internet links with Thailand. This decision follows heightened tensions between the two countries after an armed confrontation on May 28, 2025, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. Cambodian officials announced that the import and screening of Thai films would be prohibited, and broadcasters were instructed to cease airing Thai-produced content, which includes popular soap operas (AP News, Washington Post).

Additionally, Cambodia's Minister of Post and Telecommunication, Chea Vandeth, stated that all telecommunications operators in Cambodia have disconnected cross-border internet links with Thailand. This move is expected to financially impact Thailand, potentially depriving it of hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue (AP News, Lao Times).

Analysis

The claim that Cambodia has banned Thai films and cut internet bandwidth in retaliation is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. The Associated Press and the Washington Post both report the Cambodian government's actions as a direct response to ongoing tensions with Thailand, particularly following the recent border clash (AP News, Washington Post).

The Cambodian government's decision to cut internet links is particularly significant, as it reflects a strategic move to assert self-reliance and respond to perceived threats from Thai nationalists who have called for cutting off utilities to Cambodia (AP News). The credibility of these reports is high, given that they originate from established news outlets with a history of accurate reporting on Southeast Asian affairs.

However, it is important to note that while Cambodian officials claim the internet cuts will financially impact Thailand, the actual verification of the revenue loss remains unconfirmed. Thai officials have also stated that any measures taken against Cambodia would not be directly related to the territorial conflict but aimed at addressing online scams prevalent in the border region (AP News, Guardian).

Conclusion

The claim that Cambodia has banned Thai films and cut internet bandwidth in retaliation is True. The actions taken by the Cambodian government are well-documented and are a direct response to escalating tensions with Thailand following a border confrontation. The government’s measures reflect a strategic shift to bolster national self-reliance and address nationalistic sentiments within Cambodia.

Fact Check: Cambodia bans Thai films and cuts internet bandwidth in retaliation.