Cambodia tells UN Security Council use of force against territorial integrity violates international law

NEW YORK, Jan 27, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia told the UN Security Council on Monday that any threat or use of force against the territorial integrity of a state is a clear violation of international law, urging member states to uphold the UN Charter and resolve disputes through peaceful legal means.

Keo Chhea, Cambodia’s ambassador to the United Nations, delivered the statement during a high-level debate on reaffirming the international rule of law at UN headquarters in New York.

He outlined three principles central to the rules-based order. First, he said Article 2(4) of the UN Charter explicitly prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

Second, he stressed that peaceful settlement of disputes is a legal obligation, pointing to the International Court of Justice as a legitimate mechanism for durable solutions.

Third, Chhea underscored the importance of respecting international humanitarian law, warning that attacks on civilians, destruction of property, illegal occupation of territory, obstruction of displaced persons, and damage to cultural heritage sites constitute serious breaches.