Cambodia Protests Thai Activities Near Preah Vihear Temple

Cambodia Protests Thai Activities Near Preah Vihear Temple

PHNOM PENH, April 5, 2026 — Cambodia has lodged a formal protest against Thailand over what it described as unlawful military activities in disputed border areas near the Preah Vihear Temple, calling on Bangkok to immediately halt the actions.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said Thai armed forces carried out land-clearing operations on April 4 in Sra Em commune, Preah Vihear province, near the historic temple site north of Keo Sikha Kiri Svara Pagoda.

Cambodia also accused Thai troops of laying about 100 metres of barbed wire and deploying armoured personnel vehicles in the Bosbov–Choam Tae area.

Phnom Penh said the actions were neither defensive nor in line with commitments under the Joint Statement of the Third Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting held on December 27, 2025, which outlined de-escalation measures.

The government said the activities violated Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, citing the 1904 Franco-Siamese Convention and the 1907 Treaty, and rejected any attempt to establish facts on the ground through unilateral actions.

“Cambodia does not recognize any boundary line or territorial claim unilaterally asserted by Thailand,” the statement said.

Cambodia urged Thailand to cease all such activities, avoid further unilateral measures and work toward reducing tensions and maintaining peaceful relations along the border.

Despite the dispute, Phnom Penh reiterated its commitment to resolving boundary issues through peaceful means in accordance with international law and existing bilateral agreements.

Border tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbours have periodically resurfaced, particularly around areas near the Preah Vihear Temple, a longstanding flashpoint.