Phnom Penh: Cambodia will begin conscripting civilians into its military beginning next year, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced on Monday, amid ongoing tensions along its border with Thailand. The decision comes in the wake of recent hostilities that have escalated between the two neighboring countries.

According to Radio Free Asia, tensions spiked after a Cambodian soldier was killed on May 28 in a shooting incident in a contested border area. This incident has led to several developments, including the closure of some border areas, Cambodia’s petition to the International Court of Justice, and a ban on certain Thai imports. Additionally, Thailand has suspended its Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, following a negative response to a leaked phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.

In his address on Monday, Hun Manet called for an increase in Cambodia’s military budget. He also urged Thailand to reopen the border crossings it had closed, signaling a desire for de-escalation and cooperation despite the heightened tensions.