Cambodia Marks One Year of Thai Military Border Incursions, Displaced Persons Report Suffering and Fear

Displaced persons living in the O'Smach area of Udor Mean Chey province in northwestern Cambodia are reporting severe hardship and fear as one year has passed since the Thai military's incursions into the region. As of July 24, 2026, marking exactly one year, this situation highlights the grave impact of the Thai military's violations of Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Cambodian government remains steadfast in its stance, continuing to demand justice and territorial preservation through diplomatic and legal channels. U-In Sokha, 63, a displaced person from O'Smach, recounted the events when the Thai military invaded her home using heavy artillery and aerial bombardment, destroying her property. Her farmland and belongings were lost in an instant, devastating her livelihood. Currently residing in Sras Keav village, Chong Kal district, she holds onto hope that the government will resolve the conflict with Thailand and reclaim the land illegally occupied by the Thai military. Throughout the past year, Thai armed forces have continued to violate Cambodia's sovereignty along the border. Notably, from July 5 to 7, 2026, Thai forces engaged in excavation, embankment construction, and the laying of barbed wire near border pillar No. 14 in O'Smach commune, Samrong district, Udor Mean Chey province. These actions have instilled fear among residents, forcing many to flee their homes. The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has strongly protested these continued violations by Thailand, deeming them acts contrary to international law. Many displaced individuals have reported the loss of property and disruptions to their daily lives. Despite these challenges, the affected citizens remain hopeful of returning to their homes and demand that Thailand withdraw its forces and structures from Cambodian territory in accordance with international law. The suffering and fear experienced by the displaced persons in the O'Smach area serve as testimony to the severe consequences of the Thai military's border incursions. Cambodia will continue its pursuit of justice and territorial integrity through diplomatic and legal means. Source: AKP Khmer