Cambodia to protest alleged Thai military actions

PHNOM PENH, Jan 19, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia will lodge a diplomatic protest with Thailand over alleged military actions that Phnom Penh says risk undermining efforts to ease border tensions and threaten civilian security, a foreign ministry official said Sunday.

The move follows reports that Thai troops reinstalled barbed-wire fencing around houses and shops owned by Chinese nationals in the Thmor Da area of Pursat province, which Cambodian officials describe as under illegal occupation by Thai forces.

The ministry said the fencing had previously been removed by Chinese nationals operating businesses in the area.

It warned the measures violated a joint statement adopted at the third special meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) on December 27, under which both sides pledged to allow civilians to return to their homes “without obstruction, and in safety and dignity.”

Cambodia voiced serious concern that the alleged violations could affect Cambodia’s sovereignty, alter the security environment in civilian areas and complicate ongoing border demarcation.

Officials stressed the December agreement was intended to reduce tensions and restore normal life in border communities, not to entrench military presence.

Cambodia urged Thailand to fully implement the GBC statement and other accords aimed at restoring peace and stability along the frontier. Phnom Penh reiterated its commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, in line with international law and bilateral agreements.