Opinion: Ta Mone Thom Incident: Cambodia’s Sovereignty Must Be Respected

Opinion: Ta Mone Thom Incident: Cambodia’s Sovereignty Must Be Respected

Thai soldiers prevent a Cambodian woman from entering Ta Mone Thom Temple on July 15. FB

The Phnom Penh Post | On July 15, a disturbing altercation occurred at the sacred Ta Mone Thom Temple, where Cambodian and Thai soldiers engaged in a brief but serious confrontation. The incident, which unfolded after Thai paramilitary forces reportedly blocked a Cambodian woman from ascending the temple — despite it being well within Cambodia’s internationally recognised borders — has once again highlighted the volatile nature of unresolved border sensitivities.

When Cambodian soldiers stationed at the temple intervened to protect the dignity and rights of the woman, they were met with verbal abuse from the Thai side. The situation quickly escalated into a physical altercation, causing panic among tourists and threatening to ignite a broader conflict. Fortunately, no weapons were discharged, and tensions were eventually defused through prompt mediation led by Brigadier General Neak Vong of Cambodia’s Infantry Brigade 42 and senior Thai military representatives.

While calm has been restored for now, the implications of this confrontation are far from settled.

Ta Mone Thom Temple lies within Cambodian territory. Its location is not a matter of debate or interpretation, but a matter of international fact and legal demarcation. Cambodian citizens, including women, have every right to access, worship and visit this sacred site without harassment or intimidation. The presence of Cambodian soldiers there is not only lawful — it is necessary to defend national sovereignty and ensure security for all visitors.

This latest provocation raises serious concerns about the conduct of Thai forces operating near the border. Preventing a civilian from visiting a temple on Cambodian soil is a violation of basic norms of neighbourly relations. Engaging in verbal abuse and physical aggression toward soldiers protecting their own citizens crosses a line that should alarm all who value regional peace.

Cambodia has consistently demonstrated restraint, opting for diplomacy and dialogue over confrontation. The swift and peaceful resolution of the July 15 incident once again proves Cambodia’s commitment to avoiding escalation and maintaining regional stability. However, this commitment must not be mistaken for weakness. Sovereignty is non-negotiable. Cambodia will protect its people, its culture and its territory with determination and in accordance with international law.

Moving forward, we urge the Thai government to uphold its responsibilities by ensuring its military personnel act with professionalism and respect. Repeated provocations only erode trust and increase the risk of future confrontation. Both nations must engage in sincere, good-faith dialogue to strengthen border cooperation and prevent misunderstandings from spiralling into dangerous incidents.

The Ta Mone Thom incident should not be dismissed as a minor border quarrel. It is a stark warning: peace must be guarded, sovereignty must be respected and civilians must never be used as pawns in political or territorial disputes.

Cambodia remains committed to peace — but not at the cost of its dignity or its land.

Roth Santepheap is a geopolitical analyst based in Phnom Penh. The views and opinions expressed are his own.