Cambodia Rejects ‘Unilateral’ Border Actions by Thailand

PHNOM PENH, April 6, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has rejected what it described as unilateral attempts by Thailand to alter the status quo along their shared border, warning such actions risk heightening tensions between the two neighbours.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said Monday that Cambodia “firmly rejects any attempt to undermine the situation by creating a fait accompli on the ground,” citing violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity under the Franco-Siamese Convention of 1904 and the Treaty of 1907.

He said the actions contravene de-escalation measures agreed in a joint statement of the General Border Committee in December 2025, stressing Cambodia does not recognise any unilateral demarcation or territorial claims.

“The Royal Government of Cambodia demands that Thailand immediately cease all these illegal activities, stop any further unilateral actions, and take steps to reduce tensions, strengthen mutual trust, and maintain peace and good neighbourliness,” Bona said.

The Ministry of Interior reported more than 640,000 people had been displaced by the situation, with 94% now returned home, though nearly 35,000 remain displaced.

On April 5, Cambodia lodged a formal protest against what it called unlawful Thai military activity near the Preah Vihear Temple, accusing Thai forces of land-clearing operations in disputed territory.

Officials said the actions were “neither defensive in nature” nor consistent with agreements reached in December.