Cambodia condemns Thai military provocations in Banteay Meanchey
Cambodia condemns Thai military provocations in Banteay Meanchey
Phnom Penh, 17 September 2025 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia has issued a strong statement condemning what it described as “reckless and provocative actions” by Thai armed forces in Prey Chan village, O Bei Choan commune, O Chrov district, Banteay Meanchey province.
According to credible reports cited by the Ministry, Thai soldiers armed with shields, batons, and weapons crossed into Cambodian territory on 17 September. The troops reportedly fired tear gas and rubber bullets and deployed high-frequency sound devices that caused harm to the ears of Cambodian villagers. The incident resulted in multiple civilian injuries, including Buddhist monks, during a tense standoff with villagers who were peacefully defending their homes and property.
The Ministry emphasized that this “unacceptable act of intimidation”—along with recent incidents involving the pointing of live weapons at Cambodian civilians—constitutes a serious violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as fundamental principles of international law and humanitarian norms.
The statement stressed that Cambodian civilians, peacefully living on their ancestral land, must never be subjected to threats, harassment, or violence. The Ministry further warned that such repeated provocations by Thai forces endanger the fragile ceasefire along the border and jeopardize ongoing bilateral efforts to resolve disputes peacefully.
In its appeal, the Ministry urged the Thai armed forces to “immediately cease hostile actions, exercise utmost restraint, and ensure full respect for Cambodia’s sovereignty and the dignity and safety of Cambodian civilians.” Cambodia also called on the international community, particularly ASEAN and its partners, to closely monitor the situation and support measures to prevent further escalation.
Reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to peace, the Ministry underscored that the Kingdom remains steadfast in seeking a diplomatic resolution to the border conflict. Cambodia continues to prioritize dialogue and negotiation through established bilateral mechanisms, including the General Border Committee (GBC), Regional Border Committees (RBC), and the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC).
The Ministry highlighted the importance of confidence-building measures, humanitarian cooperation, and civilian protection along the border. Cambodia reiterated its rejection of any actions that could fuel tensions, affirming that disputes must be settled through “good neighborliness, international law, and ASEAN’s spirit of solidarity.”
By reinforcing its reliance on diplomacy and regional cooperation, Cambodia expressed its determination to safeguard stability, peace, and harmony for the peoples of both nations.
