Cambodia Protests Thai Border Incursions, Cites Territory Violations

PHNOM PENH, Sept 8, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has lodged a formal protest with Thailand over what it described as repeated violations of its sovereignty along the disputed border, accusing Thai forces of demolishing civilian homes and constructing military facilities inside Cambodian territory. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Thai troops destroyed two Cambodian houses in Boeung Trakoun, Banteay Meanchey province, on August 31, before leveling the site and building an embankment for what Phnom Penh alleged was a permanent military structure. Between September 1 and 3, Thai forces were accused of building bunkers near O Khla Khmum pagoda in Oddar Meanchey province. Cambodian officials also reported Thai personnel drilling a well in Chouk Chey village and demolishing civilian structures in Prey Chan village in early September. Phnom Penh criticized a September 7 visit by Thai Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sornchaidee, who led an ASEAN Observer Team to buildings near the Royal O Smach Hotel and Resort. Cambodia said the facilities had been occupied by Thai forces since December 2025 and denounced the visit as an “unlawful assertion” of Thai authority. The government said the activities violated a 2000 memorandum on boundary demarcation and a December 2025 statement by the General Border Committee, under which both sides agreed to refer disputes to the Joint Boundary Commission. Cambodia stressed it would not recognise any unilateral boundary claims and urged Thailand to halt “unlawful actions,” rebuild trust and resolve disputes peacefully. It reiterated its position that international borders must not be changed by force.