Cambodia Protests Thai Religious Activities at Disputed Ta Krabey Temple Area

PHNOM PENH, April 22, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has lodged a strong protest against what it described as unauthorised religious activities by Thai authorities and citizens at Ta Krabey Temple, a disputed site Phnom Penh claims as its sovereign territory.

In a statement Wednesday, the Ministry of Cults and Religion said Thai officials and local participants had continued to organise prayer gatherings and ceremonies at the site despite repeated objections.

The ministry said the actions violated Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and urged Thailand to halt them immediately.

It also objected to the reported presence of senior Thai officials at a religious event on April 22, warning it risked reinforcing unlawful activity and undermining dialogue.

Phnom Penh said the matter touches on boundary arrangements and legal instruments, including historical treaties and agreements, as well as mechanisms under the Joint Boundary Commission.

The statement reiterated Cambodia’s position that the dispute should be resolved peacefully through bilateral channels and in line with international law, while calling on Thailand to cease all religious ceremonies in the area.