PHNOM PENH: In a sharp diplomatic escalation, Cambodia has accused Thai military forces of systemic provocations and illegal territorial encroachment, claiming these actions directly violate a high-stakes ceasefire recently brokered by U.S. President Donald J. Trump.
Humanitarian Concerns and Territorial Integrity
During a high-level meeting on February 5, 2026, Senior Minister Keo Remy, President of the Cambodia Human Rights Committee (CHRC), briefed U.S. Senior Judge John C. Coughenour on the deteriorating situation along the frontier. The Minister detailed a series of aggressive maneuvers by Thai forces, including:
- Strikes on Cultural Heritage: Allegations of heavy artillery and fighter jet strikes near the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear Temple.
- Prohibited Munitions: Reports of the use of cluster bombs and “poisonous smoke,” which Cambodia classifies as a direct violation of the 1949 Geneva Conventions.
- Displacement Crisis: Over 100,000 displaced Cambodians remain unable to return to their homes due to military barricades and shipping containers positioned by the Thai military.
Flouting the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration
The current tensions come despite the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration signed on October 26, 2025. This agreement, witnessed by President Trump and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, was intended to stabilize the region. However, Minister Keo Remy asserted that Thai “extremists” are ignoring international law and the spirit of the U.S.-brokered peace plan.
In response, Judge Coughenour expressed the U.S. administration’s support for Cambodia’s “unwavering commitment” to a peaceful resolution. He reportedly signaled disappointment in what he termed “unjustified” aggression from the Thai military side, while simultaneously praising Cambodia’s domestic progress in human rights, including the protection of LGBTQ+ rights and the continued abolition of the death penalty.
Impact on Regional Stability and Investment
For the international community and foreign investors, the stability of the Thai-Cambodian border is a critical factor for regional supply chains and tourism. While the political rhetoric remains high, the Royal Government of Cambodia continues to seek a diplomatic solution through international mediation.
The focus remains on:
- Restoring the Ceasefire: Ensuring all parties adhere to the October 2025 agreement to prevent further displacement.
- Protecting Sovereignty: Utilizing international forums to address territorial claims without military engagement.
- Humanitarian Aid: Providing support to the 100,000 citizens currently affected by the border blockades.
FAQ: The Border Tensions & The Ceasefire
President Trump acted as a key witness and mediator for the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration in late 2025, aiming to bring regional stability and protect U.S. interests in Southeast Asia.
Cambodia has raised concerns that recent artillery fire has occurred near the temple site. The government is calling on UNESCO and international monitors to verify the status of this World Heritage site.
While major international border crossings like Poipet remain operational for trade, travelers are advised to monitor official updates, as localized tensions near Preah Vihear can lead to temporary closures of specific mountain passes.