Cambodia Accuses Thailand of Continued Territorial Occupation Amid Border Dispute

Phnom Penh, July 28, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian government spokesman Pen Bona accused Thailand on Tuesday of continuing to occupy areas inside Cambodian territory one year after the first ceasefire agreement, alleging repeated violations of the truce through the use of force. Marking the anniversary of the July 28, 2025 ceasefire, Bona said Cambodia defended itself for five days after what he described as Thai military attacks aimed at seizing territory. He said around 20,000 displaced people, mostly women and children, remain unable to return home due to destroyed houses, barbed‑wire fences and shipping containers in affected border areas. He noted that diplomatic efforts led to a Joint Declaration on Peace signed by the Cambodian and Thai prime ministers in Kuala Lumpur on Oct. 26, 2025, witnessed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. But he alleged Thai forces violated both the ceasefire and declaration by launching a second attack on Dec. 7, 2025, using heavy artillery, cluster munitions and fighter aircraft. A second ceasefire was reached on Dec. 27, 2025, with 18 Cambodian soldiers released days later. Bona said Cambodia has complied with the agreement, including provisions requiring both sides to maintain positions and assigning the Joint Boundary Commission responsibility for demarcation. He accused Thai forces of installing barriers, destroying homes and building new facilities in disputed areas to create a “fait accompli.” Cambodia has lodged repeated protests, he said, reaffirming its commitment to protect sovereignty and internationally recognised borders under treaties and international law.