Regarding Cambodia’s Stance on the Illegal Occupation of Khnar Temple by Thai Military Forces June 29, 2026

Regarding Cambodia’s Stance on the Illegal Occupation of Khnar Temple by Thai Military Forces June 29, 2026

Cambodia PR Team Responses
Regarding Cambodia’s Stance on the Illegal Occupation of Khnar Temple by Thai Military Forces
June 29, 2026

Q1: What is the basis for Cambodia’s claim that Khnar Temple is located within Cambodian territory?

A: Cambodia asserts that Khnar Temple is under Cambodia’s sovereignty based on the legal and technical foundations established during the Franco-Siamese border demarcation process in the early 20th century. These foundations include conventions, treaties, 1:200,000 scale map, boundary demarcation minutes, and relevant official documents, all of which demonstrate that Khnar Temple is located within Cambodian territory.

Furthermore, technical verification has shown that even the 1:50,000 scale map, which Thailand unilaterally drew and used to support its claims, still indicates that Khnar Temple lies within Cambodian territory. This further confirms that Cambodia’s position is well-founded and consistent with legal grounds.

Q2: Can the illegal occupation of Khnar Temple by Thai military forces make the temple part of Thai territory?

A: No, it can’t. Cambodia affirms that de facto occupation by force cannot create legal rights or alter the legal status of territory. Sovereignty over Khnar Temple must be determined by existing treaties, conventions, maps, and border demarcation documents, not by military occupation.

Therefore, the continued occupation of the Khnar Temple area by Thai military forces cannot alter the legal basis or Cambodia’s position concerning sovereignty over the temple. Cambodia continues to demand that the Thai side respect international law and resolve this issue through peaceful means, in accordance with existing agreements. Cambodia will continue to pursue its claim and seek a solution until justice is achieved.