KhmerTimes-Jan 19, 2026
Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have resurfaced as the Thai military reinstalls razor-wire barriers around occupied homes and shops owned by Chinese businessmen on Cambodia’s side of the western border in the Thmar Da area of Pursat province. Cambodia has lodged a strong protest against the Thai armed forces’ actions, saying they have altered security conditions near civilian areas and undermined efforts to de-escalate the territorial row between the two countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement. The ministry said the actions have disrupted the safe and dignified return of civilians to their homes land and risk creating new complications to the efforts to restore normalcy along the border. In particular, the ministry cited the laying of barbed wire by Thai forces near the Thmar Da International Point of Entry in Pursat province on Friday, describing the move as raising serious concerns over Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Foreign Ministry said the action was inconsistent with de-escalation measures outlined in Item I of the Joint Statement from the 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) held on December 27. The joint statement, it said, was intended as a comprehensive framework to reduce tensions, protect civilians and restore normal civilian life, rather than to entrench military presence. Read more at: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501829169/cambodia-protests-thai-occupation-of-thmar-da-area/#google_vignette
