Opinion: Provocation at the Border: Thai Army’s Repeated Violations of Cambodian Sovereignty Must Stop

Khmer Times | In recent weeks and months, the Thai military has repeatedly attempted to test the patience and restraint of Cambodia by provoking incidents along the border—particularly near the historic sites of Ta Mone Thom, Ta Mone Toch, Ta Krabey and Mom Bei areas. These acts are not isolated missteps but deliberate provocations that undermine regional peace and violate Cambodia’s territorial sovereignty.
On the morning of July 4, 2025, a group of black-clad Thai soldiers once again attempted to provoke tensions with Cambodian forces stationed at the Ghost Mountain frontline. According to frontline assessments by the Cambodian military, these Thai soldiers deliberately and repeatedly tried to advance into Cambodian territory. Their actions appeared designed to incite frustration among the disciplined Cambodian troops—an intentional provocation aimed at sparking a confrontation or exchange of fire.
Multiple reports from the frontlines have confirmed instances where Thai troops have crossed into Cambodian soil, attempting to assert control over areas that rightfully belong to Cambodia. These intrusions are not just geographic violations—they are attacks on Cambodia’s sovereignty, dignity, and historical truth.
Cambodian soldiers, trained in discipline and guided by their duty to protect the motherland, have acted with professionalism and resilience in the face of these threats. Their mission is clear: defend every inch of Cambodian territory and prevent any form of encroachment, whether by force or deception.
While Thailand attempts to present a calm diplomatic face to the international community, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Behind the scenes, their military actions reveal a pattern of aggression aimed at destabilizing the status quo and intimidating Cambodian forces. Such behavior cannot and will not be tolerated.
The Cambodian Armed Forces have shown admirable restraint, choosing to de-escalate rather than provoke, but they will not stand down when the nation’s sovereignty is at risk. Every soldier stationed along the border understands that they are not just guarding land—they are defending history, culture, and the rightful legacy of the Khmer people.
It is time for the Thai government to rein in its military, respect international boundaries, and commit to peaceful dialogue—not frontier theatrics. Cambodia does not seek conflict, but it will never allow its soil to be violated or its dignity to be diminished.
On 1 July 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet issued a warning to Thailand, stating that any unilateral attempt to block Cambodian citizens from accessing the Ta Mone Thom Temple, which remain under territorial dispute and are awaiting a ruling from the International Court of Justice, would constitute crossing a red line and would lead to serious consequences.
Let the message be clear: Cambodia stands united. Any further attempt to provoke, intimidate, or encroach will be met with firm, rightful resistance in defense of our national sovereignty.
By Roth Santepheap, Geopolitical Analyst based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The views and opinions expressed are his own.