The ongoing territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand continues to affect thousands of civilians, with more than 20,000 people displaced due to recent hostilities. The ceasefire agreement, which took effect on December 27, was initially intended to stabilize the situation and facilitate the safe return of these displaced individuals. However, Cambodia warns that the ceasefire should not be misused to redefine international borders or determine the legal ownership of contested areas.
Cambodian Information Minister Neth Pheaktra highlighted that the ceasefire agreement, which both nations reached in December, explicitly maintains the current military positions without influencing the eventual border determination. Despite this, Pheaktra accused Thai forces of reinforcing their presence in areas claimed by Cambodia by installing barbed wire, containers, and undertaking construction activities, which could establish new realities on the ground.
The situation remains tense as both countries continue to assert their claims over the disputed territories. Thailand has reportedly taken foreign delegates, ASEAN observers, and international journalists to inspect areas close to the border, including the O’Smach casino area and Choam crossing. During these visits, Thailand presented allegations concerning the use of casino buildings and cross-border criminal activities, further complicating the territorial dispute.
Cambodia, for its part, disputes Thailand’s claims over these areas, steadfastly maintaining that the territory is under Cambodian jurisdiction. The Cambodian government emphasizes that the ability to safely return displaced civilians should be a critical measure of the ceasefire’s effectiveness and respect.
As tensions simmer, the international community watches closely, given the potential for escalation. Both nations are urged to adhere strictly to the terms of the ceasefire to prevent further displacement and humanitarian consequences for the civilian populations affected by this longstanding border conflict.