Defence Minister Visits Frontline Troops Amid Border Tensions with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, April 7, 2026 (KPT) – Defence Minister General Tea Seiha visited troops stationed along Cambodia’s coastal and border areas on Tuesday, as tensions with Thailand continue to rise.

The defence ministry said Seiha travelled to frontline positions in Military Region 3, including Koh Kong and Preah Sihanouk provinces, where he conveyed New Year wishes to commanders and personnel of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces.

He praised their service and expressed hope for their continued success and well-being during the holiday period.

The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened border tensions. On Monday, government spokesman Pen Bona rejected what he described as unilateral Thai attempts to alter the status quo, citing violations of sovereignty under the Franco-Siamese Convention of 1904 and the Treaty of 1907.

Cambodia’s foreign ministry lodged a formal protest on April 5 over Thai military activity near the disputed Preah Vihear Temple area, accusing Thai forces of land-clearing operations in contested territory.

Officials said the actions were “neither defensive in nature” nor consistent with agreements reached in December 2025.

Authorities said Seiha’s visit was intended to boost morale among troops and underscore Cambodia’s commitment to defending its sovereignty.