Cambodia withdraws from 2025 SEA Games due to border conflict with Thailand

The morning after the opening ceremony of the Southeast Asian Games 2025 in Thailand, Cambodia — which is currently involved in a border conflict with the host nation — formally announced that it is pulling its entire delegation from the biennial multi-sport event.

In a letter by Vath Chamroeun, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, addressed to SEA Games 2025 Chief Executive Officer Dato Seri Chaiyapak Siriwat, the request stemmed from families’ serious concern for the athletes’ safety and their appeal for an immediate return home.

The NOCC also expressed gratitude for the warmth and solidarity shown by Thai officials during their stay, and apologized for any inconvenience that the withdrawal would cause.

The exit of Cambodia leaves only 10 nations competing in the 33rd SEA Games, which began on 9 December and will end on 20 December.

Borders brew conflict

The territorial dispute between the two neighbors began in May 2025 before the crisis escalated on 8 December, when Thailand launched air attacks after claiming its troops were fired upon by Cambodian forces.

Both countries accuse the other of violating the cease-fire agreement, which was signed and later enhanced with the involvement of US President Donald Trump. Thai authorities also claim that hundreds of thousands of civilians are being evacuated.