Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said his government will activate a long-dormant conscription law next year, requiring citizens to begin mandatory military service in 2026. The measure marks the first enforcement of a 2006 statute mandating 18 months of service for men aged 18 to 30, while women may enlist voluntarily. Hun Manet announced the decision at a military ceremony on 14 July, framing the move as part of a broader effort to strengthen the armed forces. He also urged lawmakers to raise defence spending beyond the US$739 million allocated in the 2025 national budget. The policy shift comes amid escalating friction with neighbouring Thailand. Tensions spiked after a 28 May border clash that left one Cambodian soldier dead, prompting temporary crossing closures, mutual trade restrictions and a Cambodian petition to the International Court of Justice. In Thailand, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended following criticism over a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. Cambodia’s armed forces are estimated to number about 200,000, compared with roughly 350,000 active personnel in Thailand. Phnom Penh argues that a conscript force will improve readiness and ease manpower shortages as the two countries seek to de-escalate but continue to fortify their respective borders.