Cambodia Accuses Thai Military of Border Encroachment, Citing Ceasefire Violations

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Aug. 15, 2025) — Cambodia’s Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary (JBC) issued a formal protest Thursday against what it described as repeated encroachment activities by the Thai military, calling the actions a serious breach of the ceasefire agreement and international law.

According to a press release, Thai forces laid barbed wire, nets, barricades, and vehicle tires across multiple disputed segments of the border in Banteay Meanchey Province between August 12 and 14. The incidents occurred near Boundary Pillars 42–43 and 46–47, as well as the Boeung Trakuon Border Checkpoint. Cambodian officials said Thai troops withdrew from the latter site only after encountering local residents, Cambodian forces, and members of the Interim Observer Team (IOT), which includes military attachés from six ASEAN countries.

“These unilateral encroachment activities constitute grave and serious violations of the spirit of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding  and International Law, especially the mandate of the Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary-JBC while undermine the efforts and negotiation process between the two countries,” the JBC stated.

The protest follows heightened tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border, where both sides agreed to a 13-point ceasefire arrangement on August 7 in Kuala Lumpur. Key provisions prohibit troop movements and provocative actions, including the construction of military infrastructure in disputed areas.

Government spokesperson Pen Bona

Cambodia has demanded that Thailand immediately remove all barriers and take measures to prevent further violations. The commission reiterated its call for restraint and respect for the ceasefire, warning that continued incursions could destabilize the fragile peace.