Tensions Persist Between Cambodia and Thailand Over Border Disputes

Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn has accused Thailand of continuing to occupy civilian areas within Cambodian territory, despite a ceasefire agreement reached in December 2025 that aimed to halt weeks of intense border fighting. The clashes, which involved fighter jets, rocket fire, and artillery, resulted in significant casualties, with 101 reported deaths and over half a million displaced. Sokhonn stated that approximately 4,000 Cambodian families remain unable to return to their homes due to the ongoing presence of Thai military forces, which he claims are stationed "well inside Cambodia" at multiple locations along the border.

The Straits TimesCambodia Says Thai Troops Still Hold Civilian Areas, Putting Border Truce at Risk

In response to Cambodia's allegations, Thai military and government officials have dismissed the claims as "baseless." They assert that the maintenance of current troop positions is in line with agreed de-escalation measures and does not constitute an occupation. The Thai foreign ministry emphasized its commitment to resolving the dispute through bilateral mechanisms, including the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), which is tasked with demarcating the border. However, Thailand has yet to confirm its participation in upcoming boundary talks, which Cambodia has requested.

Cambodia Says Thai Troops Still Hold Civilian Areas, Putting Border Truce at RiskThe Straits Times

The recent fighting has inflicted considerable damage on civilian infrastructure, including bridges, schools, pagodas, and roads, complicating efforts to stabilize border communities. Sokhonn highlighted the extensive destruction caused by the clashes, which has exacerbated the humanitarian situation for those displaced by the conflict. Although the ceasefire has largely held since December, Sokhonn warned that unresolved troop deployments pose risks to the fragile peace.

Cambodia Says Thai Troops Still Hold Civilian Areas, Putting Border Truce at Risk

The ceasefire was facilitated by diplomatic interventions from various international actors, including U.S. President Donald Trump, who played a role in halting the July clashes and overseeing the signing of a broader ceasefire agreement in October. Additionally, China has emerged as a key diplomatic player, dispatching a special envoy to both Cambodia and Thailand in late December and facilitating a trilateral meeting between the foreign ministers of the three countries in Yunnan province aimed at rebuilding trust.

Cambodia Says Thai Troops Still Hold Civilian Areas, Putting Border Truce at Risk

Analysts note that the ongoing territorial disagreements between Cambodia and Thailand highlight the fragility of ceasefires when underlying issues remain unresolved. While large-scale fighting has ceased, differing interpretations of troop positions and ceasefire obligations could lead to renewed tensions. The situation underscores the limitations of external mediation in addressing local security dilemmas, as mistrust continues to influence military behavior on the ground.

Cambodia Says Thai Troops Still Hold Civilian Areas, Putting Border Truce at Risk

As both countries prepare for potential boundary talks, the outcome will depend on Thailand's willingness to engage in discussions following its upcoming elections on February 8. The resolution of the border dispute and the safe return of displaced families remain critical issues that need to be addressed to ensure lasting peace in the region.

Cambodia Says Thai Troops Still Hold Civilian Areas, Putting Border Truce at Risk