Cambodia Warns Public Over “False” Border Reopening Claims

Her Excellency General Maly Socheata, Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, April 15, 2026 — Cambodia has firmly rejected reports that it requested Thailand to reopen border crossings for emergency goods, calling the claims false and misleading.

In a statement, Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, expressed strong disappointment over what she described as repeated misinformation circulating on social media and in some Thai media outlets.

The statement said claims that Cambodia had sought the reopening of border checkpoints were “contrary to the facts” and appeared intended to mislead both domestic and international audiences.

Cambodia reiterated that Thailand had unilaterally closed the border and therefore holds responsibility for any decision to reopen it.

“Cambodia remains ready to respond appropriately and accordingly,” the statement said, without indicating any formal request had been made.

Authorities also urged the public and media to verify information carefully and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports.

The remarks come amid ongoing sensitivities surrounding Cambodia–Thailand border management, where competing narratives have emerged over recent weeks.

Officials in Phnom Penh have consistently maintained that Cambodia has not requested Thailand to reopen border crossings, despite recurring claims to the contrary.