Cambodia Files Protest Over Thai Maritime Intrusion

Cambodia Files Protest Over Thai Maritime Intrusion

PHNOM PENH, Feb 22, 2026 — Cambodia on Sunday formally protested what it described as an unauthorized incursion by the Royal Thai Navy into its territorial waters, accusing Thai forces of violating its sovereignty and international law.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Royal Government of Cambodia said Thai naval vessels entered Cambodian territorial seas on Feb. 22 and carried out what it called unlawful law enforcement activities.

The statement said three Cambodian nationals were arrested and their fishing vessel seized approximately 7.2 nautical miles from Koh Yor in Koh Kong province.

“These actions constitute a clear violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial waters as well as international law,” the ministry said.

Phnom Penh called on Thailand to immediately release the detained Cambodian nationals and their fishing vessel, cease all unauthorized naval patrols and law enforcement activities within Cambodia’s territorial sea, and take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

There was no immediate response from Thai authorities.

The incident marks the latest development in heightened tensions between the two neighboring countries, which share a long and historically sensitive land and maritime boundary.