Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has accused Thailand of occupying deep into Cambodian territory despite a ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump.
Allegations of post-ceasefire encroachment
In an interview with Reuters on Tuesday, February 17, Hun Manet said Thai forces remain in many areas deep inside what Cambodia considers its land, even beyond Thailand’s own unilateral border claims.
He pointed out that Thai troops have placed shipping containers and barbed wire in zones long recognised as Cambodian, preventing residents from returning home.
Hun Manet described these actions as a clear violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating it is not merely an accusation but a fact on the ground.
Details of civilian impact and strategy
The prime minister claimed Thai forces have adopted an advance-seize-hold approach, leading to the dismantling of hundreds of Cambodian homes and the seizure of commercial properties, including O’Smach Resort in Oddar Meanchey province.
Such moves have displaced civilians and disrupted local businesses in the affected border regions.
The accusations follow a ceasefire reached on December 27, 2025, aimed at ending months of deadly fighting between the two neighbours.
Thailand’s denial and call for dialogue
Thailand has firmly rejected the claims, insisting its troop positions do not amount to territorial expansion or occupation.
The Thai military maintains these are 500-metre buffer zones established to prevent potential attacks and support de-escalation under the ceasefire terms.
Thailand stressed that no change in territorial control has occurred and that any unresolved border issues should be addressed through the Joint Boundary Commission.
Progress on the commission has been delayed due to Thailand’s general elections on February 8, 2026.
Cambodia’s push for mediation
Hun Manet raised the matter during a recent visit to Washington for a meeting of the Board of Peace, an initiative by President Donald Trump.
He expressed hope that the body could help play a role in de-escalating the fragile situation.
The prime minister also called for the swift resumption of Joint Boundary Commission work to demarcate the disputed border based on existing treaties and technical verification.
He mentioned seeking historical colonial-era maps from France to bolster Cambodia’s claims.
The border tensions continue to attract international attention as both sides navigate efforts to prevent a return to conflict.
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