Hundreds of Thai Troops Accused of Border Incursion in Cambodia

BANTEAY MEANCHEY, Cambodia (Oct. 10, 2025) — Hundreds of Thai troops allegedly violated Cambodian sovereignty Friday morning by advancing into Prey Chan village, located in O’Beichoan commune, Ou Chrov district, Banteay Meanchey province, according to Cambodian officials.

The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense reported that Thai forces, armed and operating heavy machinery, began clearing land in the area early Friday and continued operations until around noon. The incursion reportedly took place in the same location where Thai troops had previously entered, erected tents and stationed military vehicles.

Officials said the Thai military presence was unauthorized and breached the terms of a cease-fire agreement between the two countries. Cambodian authorities described the move as a serious violation of national sovereignty and called for immediate diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.

The incident coincided with a scheduled field mission by the Interim Observer Team (IOT), which visited Chok Chey and Prey Chan villages to monitor compliance with the cease-fire. The IOT, composed of regional observers, was tasked with observing, verifying and reporting on the situation along the border following the agreement’s implementation.

According to the Ministry of National Defense, the observer team is expected to conduct regular visits throughout the week to assess conditions on the ground and ensure both sides adhere to the terms of the cease-fire. The ministry emphasized the importance of transparency and international oversight in maintaining peace along the border.

On Thursday, Cambodian government spokesman Pen Bona accused Thai officials of distorting facts related to recent border tensions. He rejected allegations that Cambodia initiated gunfire, violated the cease-fire, encroached on Thai territory or posed a threat to Thailand’s national security.

“Cambodia is the victim in this situation,” Bona said during a press briefing. “We have consistently upheld our commitment to peace and have not taken any aggressive actions.”

Bona stressed that border disputes should be resolved through peaceful and technical means, not through military force. He called on Thailand to demonstrate goodwill and engage constructively through established bilateral mechanisms.

He cited the Joint Boundary Commission, the General Boundary Committee and the Royal Boundary Committee as key platforms for resolving territorial disagreements. Bona urged both sides to adhere to existing treaties, conventions and international law in addressing the issue.

Cambodian officials reiterated their commitment to regional stability and called on ASEAN partners and the international community to support efforts aimed at de-escalation and peaceful resolution.