ASEAN Observer Team Inspects Preah Vihear Border Area, Reports Damage to Temple and Thai Encroachment

Phnom Penh, September 10, 2026 – The Ministry of National Defense of the Kingdom of Cambodia announced that on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 8:15 AM, the Cambodian Coordination Liaison Group (CLG) facilitated the ASEAN Observer Team – Cambodia (AOT-KH), led by the Mission Leader of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT KH HOM) from the Republic of the Philippines, to inspect, verify, and report on the situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border in the Preah Vihear Temple area. The report highlights that the main structures and architecture of Preah Vihear Temple have suffered severe damage. This destruction is attributed to repeated heavy artillery shelling and aerial bombardments from drones and fighter jets, which deliberately and indiscriminately targeted the temple area. Furthermore, the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense stated that even after the ceasefire officially took effect on December 27, 2025, Thai military forces have continued their encroachment activities into Cambodian sovereign territory. These actions include the deployment of shipping containers, the laying of barbed wire, the excavation of canals, the construction of trenches, and the building of concrete roads leading closer to the Preah Vihear Temple area. Such acts are considered violations of international law and existing bilateral agreements between the two nations. The Royal Government of Cambodia remains steadfast in its commitment to resolving border issues through peaceful means in accordance with international law. This approach involves utilizing existing bilateral mechanisms, adhering to applicable conventions, treaties, and bilateral agreements, and acting within the mandate of the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Border Commission (JBC). The statement emphasized that achieving long-term peace between the two countries, which will contribute to peace, stability, and unity within ASEAN, requires genuine and sincere commitment, along with full respect for international law, the ASEAN Charter, and existing treaties and agreements between Cambodia and Thailand. Cambodia consistently provides full support to the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) and underscores its indispensable role in strengthening the AOT's mandate to conduct on-site inspections. This is crucial for verifying and ensuring the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire, as stipulated in the joint declaration of the 3rd Special Meeting of the Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) on December 27, 2025, the joint statement on the Cambodia-Thailand Peace Agreement on October 26, 2025, and other relevant agreements, all aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and mutual trust. By: Kong Sirirat © 2018 National News Agency of Cambodia. All rights reserved.