Phnom Penh Slams Thai Actions as Sovereignty Breach, Calls for Withdrawal
Phnom Penh Slams Thai Actions as Sovereignty Breach, Calls for Withdrawal
PHNOM PENH, March 20, 2026 — Cambodia has issued a strong formal protest against Thailand over what it described as continued violations of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, calling for an immediate end to all activities conducted within Cambodian territory.
In a firm statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation detailed a series of actions by Thai armed forces that Cambodia says breach the ceasefire agreement of December 27, 2025, and undermine peace and stability along the border.
Cambodian authorities reported that in the Boeung Trakuon area, smoke was seen rising from multiple locations believed to be homes within a Cambodian residential zone currently under illegal occupation by Thai forces — raising serious humanitarian concerns.
Further violations were reported in the O Teuk Chol area of Oddar Meanchey province, where Thai forces are said to have continued land clearing, road construction and the building of concrete structures deep inside Cambodian territory, extending from the K’Nar Temple toward the Ta Krabey Temple.
The statement also revealed that on March 18, Thai armed forces, in coordination with forestry and land officials, conducted land surveys and allocated plots to Thai citizens in areas along the border in Banteay Meanchey province — a move Cambodia views as a deliberate attempt to alter facts on the ground.
The Royal Government of Cambodia firmly rejected any unilateral boundary demarcation or territorial claims by Thailand, stressing that such actions have no legal validity and will not affect Cambodia’s sovereign rights.
Phnom Penh called on Thailand to immediately cease all unlawful activities, respect existing bilateral agreements, and act in good faith to de-escalate tensions and restore mutual trust.
Cambodia reiterated its unwavering commitment to peaceful resolution through international law and dialogue, while making clear its principled position that no country has the right to change internationally recognized borders by force.
Officials said the latest developments highlight the urgent need to safeguard sovereignty, protect local communities and uphold long-standing legal frameworks governing the Cambodia–Thailand border.
