Calls for restraint over reported Thai military activities in unlawfully occupied areas
Calls for restraint over reported Thai military activities in unlawfully occupied areas
#National
An official source said Cambodia is closely monitoring reported Thai military activities along the border and has called for restraint to avoid escalating tensions.
The source said Thailand’s 1st Army Region and Burapha Task Force had reportedly deployed forces to secure and facilitate the measurement of three agricultural land plots covering approximately 70 rai (11.2 hectares) in Nong Chan village, Khok Sung district, Sa Kaeo province.
The areas were described as being located in zones under unlawful occupation by Thai military forces in O’Chrov district of Banteay Meanchey province.
The reports, published by Thai media on March 18–19, 2026, also indicated that Thailand has continued constructing bomb shelters for civilians along the border, with 38 shelters completed in the first phase and more than 100 additional units planned in the second phase.
“Border issues and any activities along the border must be conducted in strict compliance with relevant agreements between the two countries,” the source said. “Any unilateral actions that alter the situation in border areas—whether under the pretext of security, land measurement, or infrastructure development—could lead to misunderstandings, heighten tensions, and affect the atmosphere of mutual trust.”
The official stressed that border demarcation and management cannot be resolved through military measures or by creating “facts on the ground” (fait accompli) through troop deployment, infrastructure construction or unilateral issuance of land titles.
“These issues must be addressed through bilateral mechanisms, particularly via the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), to ensure peaceful resolution in accordance with international law,” the source added.
The source also called on Thailand to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could be interpreted as reinforcing occupation or unilaterally changing the situation on the ground.
“Maintaining peace, stability, and good neighbourly relations must be based on mutual respect, not on coercion or the creation of new realities on the ground,” the source said.
The source reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to resolving all issues peacefully through negotiations, technical border mechanisms and international law.
-Khmer Times-
