Cambodia Files Formal Complaint Over Thai Military's Alleged Border Encroachment

Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Amid escalating border tensions, Cambodia has lodged a formal complaint against the Thai military, accusing its forces of unilateral border encroachment. The Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) on Land Boundary issued a protest against what it described as "unilateral land encroachment activities" by Thai troops along the shared border in Banteay Meanchey province, emphasizing that these actions are a violation of both the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding and international law.

According to a press statement from Cambodia’s State Secretariat of the Border Affairs, the JBC cited three specific incidents that occurred between August 12 and 14, 2025. In these instances, Thai soldiers allegedly moved into disputed areas to install barriers, including barbed wire, nets, and vehicle tires. The first incident was reported on August 12 in a village between Border Markers No. 46 and 47, followed by a second on August 13 near markers No. 42 and 43. The most recent incident took place on August 14 in the vicinity of the Boeung Trakoun International Border Gate. The Cambodian government noted that in this instance, Thai troops reportedly withdrew after being observed by Cambodian civilians and security forces, a move that only highlights the premeditated nature of their incursions.

The protest note demands the immediate removal of all installations and urges Thailand to take preventive measures to avoid future violations. Cambodia has also reached out to the United Nations and ASEAN, citing ongoing ceasefire breaches and the forcible displacement of Cambodian residents along the border zones.

A History of Dispute and Unresolved Boundaries

The recent complaint is the latest episode in a long-standing and complex border dispute between the two Southeast Asian neighbors. The 817-kilometer land border, much of which was drawn during French colonial rule, has remained poorly demarcated. This has led to frequent flare-ups, particularly around historical temple sites like Preah Vihear.

Cambodia's firm position is rooted in international law and a consistent commitment to peaceful resolution through legal and technical mechanisms. The Cambodian government has repeatedly stated that its actions are guided by the 1907 Franco-Siamese treaty and the 1962 ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which affirmed Cambodian sovereignty over the Preah Vihear temple. Further demonstrating its commitment to this approach, Cambodia has indicated its intention to file a new complaint with the ICJ regarding four other disputed areas: Mom Bei, Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, and Ta Krabei Temple. This strategic move aims to achieve a definitive legal resolution if bilateral talks fail.

In response to Thai accusations that it has violated the ceasefire, Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense has maintained an "absolute and uncompromising position," stating, "we have never used, produced, or deployed new landmines under any circumstances, and we strictly and fully honour our obligations under international law."

Human Toll and Economic Impact

The escalating tensions have had a severe and immediate impact on Cambodian citizens living along the border. The conflict has displaced over 120,000 people, disrupting farming, halting business activities, and destroying crops and livestock. The loss of income has left many families in a precarious financial situation, with the National Bank of Cambodia introducing temporary debt relief measures to assist those affected.

The country's vital tourism sector has also been hit hard. Thailand was Cambodia's largest source of tourists in 2024, but ticket sales to Angkor Wat from Thai nationals plummeted by over 90 percent in July. This has had a chilling effect on the entire tourism industry, which supports approximately 510,000 direct jobs, putting the livelihoods of countless vendors, hospitality workers, and small business owners at risk. Furthermore, the situation poses a serious threat to the more than 1.2 million Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand, whose remittances are a crucial source of income for their families back home. Should diplomatic relations worsen, a large number of these workers could be forced to return, putting immense strain on Cambodia’s domestic job market.

Diplomatic and Political Context

Despite the challenges, Cambodia continues to advocate for a peaceful and diplomatic solution, with the UN Secretary-General and ASEAN urging both sides to exercise restraint. Cambodia's decision to internationalize the issue by appealing to the UN Security Council is seen as a necessary step to ensure transparency and pressure Thailand to abide by international law.

This long-standing border issue remains a significant challenge for regional stability, with international actors from Malaysia and China to the United States calling for a peaceful resolution. Cambodia's government maintains its firm commitment to dialogue, but emphasizes that any long-term solution must be based on a clear recognition of its territorial sovereignty and the full enforcement of international agreements.