The Secretary of the Navy Operations Center confirmed that the Gulf of Thailand is not closed and emphasized that enforcement measures apply exclusively to Thai-flagged vessels to block oil and military supplies from reaching Cambodia. This does not affect foreign ships. The length of enforcement remains undetermined.
At 08:10 on 16 Dec 2025 GMT+7 at the Government House, Admiral Thadawut Tadpitakkul, Chief of Naval Staff and Secretary of the Navy Operations Center (NOC), spoke before a National Security Council meeting seeking approval to elevate measures under Section 27, paragraphs 2 and 3. The aim is to integrate controls and monitoring of commercial cargo ships, fishing vessels, and fishing support boats—both Thai-flagged and those operated directly or indirectly by owners or executives in the maritime transport and international trade sectors suspected of smuggling and exporting oil or military goods to Cambodia. The NOC will also consider declaring the maritime area around Cambodian ports a risk zone. Today’s proposal focuses on maritime safety under the NOC’s responsibility, confirming the focus is solely on Thai-flagged vessels. Assurance was given that foreign ships will not be affected; the management applies only to Thai-flagged vessels or Thai cargo ships.
Admiral Thadawut said that regarding Thai vessels picking up oil from third countries to deliver to Cambodia, they will verify information first to avoid disrupting general business activities. Cambodia’s side will also be checked again since the NOC already has measures in place.
"I confirm that waters are not closed as previously reported. The goal is to ensure safety and maximize operational efficiency, particularly concerning the private sector and Thai vessels. Regarding claims that Thai ships continue delivering oil to Cambodia despite attacks, please wait for today’s National Security Council meeting results before commenting further. The NOC is responsible for managing maritime operations."
When asked about the potential duration if the National Security Council approves enforcement, Admiral Thadawut stated it depends on the situation and cannot yet be specified.