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Hollywood Star Angelina Jolie Says Her Heart Remains with Cambodia, Calls for Support for Displaced People One Year After Border Conflict

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Photo: BBC

PHNOM PENH, July 24, 2026 (KPT) – Hollywood actress and Oscar‑winning filmmaker Angelina Jolie has voiced solidarity with Cambodia, calling attention to the thousands of people still displaced one year after conflict erupted along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

In a statement marking the anniversary, Jolie said the fighting disrupted the safety and stability of communities, leaving nearly 30,000 people unable to return home.

“One year ago, conflict broke out along Cambodia’s border, upending the safety and stability of so many. My heart is with everyone still waiting to come home,” she said.

Jolie, who has maintained close ties with Cambodia for more than two decades, described the country as deeply important to her family. Her son Maddox was born in Cambodia, and she said the nation had become their home.

She highlighted her work through the Maddox Foundation, headquartered near the affected border area, which has focused on conservation and community development.

Jolie said the outbreak of fighting forced the evacuation of staff and their families, underscoring the vulnerability of border communities.

“For over 20 years, we’ve worked with a fully locally‑led team on conservation and community development,” she said.

“When the fighting broke out last year, we had to evacuate our staff and their families — a painful reminder of just how quickly conflict can return.”

Despite the challenges, Jolie said she was grateful that work had resumed to protect the environment and support local communities, including health, livelihoods and sustainable development.

“I love this country and its resilient, warm people,” she said.

Her remarks come as Cambodia marks one year since the border conflict, with humanitarian concerns still pressing for displaced families awaiting safe return.

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