Investigation finds Thailand breached international law in border conflict with Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, Feb 20, 2026 (KPT) – An independent investigation has concluded that Thailand violated international law in its handling of the recent border conflict with Cambodia, citing disproportionate military force, the alleged use of banned weapons, and actions affecting civilians.

The report, published Friday by The New York Editorial, said tensions began with a localized incident along the frontier but escalated after Thailand’s military response. It described Bangkok’s decision to launch F-16 airstrikes following a landmine blast that injured one soldier as “wildly disproportionate.”

Investigators further alleged the use of cluster munitions, banned under international conventions, which caused civilian casualties, including the death of a 10-year-old child in Preah Vihear province. The report also documented claims of psychological operations targeting border villages, such as the broadcasting of disturbing sounds at night, and suggested domestic political pressures in Bangkok may have influenced the escalation.

While acknowledging that political and security dynamics on both sides contributed to rising tensions, the investigation concluded Thailand’s actions breached international law.

Cambodia’s Interior Ministry said about 580,000 displaced persons – 89 percent of those affected – have returned home as of February 19, though more than 70,000 remain unable to do so.

Prime Minister Hun Manet has accused Thailand of occupying Cambodian territory in violation of a ceasefire, alleging Thai forces installed shipping containers and barbed wire beyond areas claimed under Bangkok’s unilateral border map.

Speaking in Washington during interviews with Reuters and Fox News, Manet said Cambodia could not accept violations of its sovereignty, calling the situation “a statement of facts on the ground.”

He reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to resolving border issues peacefully through mechanisms such as the Joint Boundary Commission, and to upholding international law against any use of force.

Officials said Cambodia views its international engagement as part of a broader diplomatic effort to strengthen multilateral support for peace and pursue a fair settlement along the border.