Cambodia Protests Thai Military Activities Along Border

PHNOM PENH, March 18, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has lodged a formal protest against Thailand, accusing its armed forces of encroachment and unlawful occupation on Cambodian territory despite a ceasefire agreement signed late last year.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC) said Thai troops had carried out land-clearing operations, built roads and permanent structures, and raised Thai flags in several locations along the frontier.

It added that Thai monks, working with soldiers, had erected Buddha statues in disputed areas.
The ministry cited incidents in Oddar Meanchey Province, including the construction of a concrete bunker near Tamone Thom Temple and roadworks in Thmar Daun Village.

In Preah Vihear Province, it reported similar activities around Hill 469 and near temples such as Daun Ton and Ta Thay.

Cambodia said the sites lie entirely within its sovereign territory, referencing maps from the Franco-Siamese Convention of 1904 and the Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907.

It argued the actions violate Article 5 of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding on boundary demarcation and de-escalation measures agreed in December 2025.

Cambodia called on Bangkok to halt the activities immediately and respect bilateral agreements aimed at preserving peace and stability.

The Cambodian government reaffirmed its commitment to resolving border disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law, rejecting any attempt to alter boundaries by force.