A Cambodian social and economic development researcher has questioned why the government has not taken renewed legal action against Thailand at the International Court of Justice over alleged incursions near the Preah Vihear temple.
Chey Tech, speaking in a video posted on social media, expressed concern that Thailand’s military has continued to advance into areas where Cambodia previously secured legal victories at the court. He suggested Phnom Penh could seek a fresh interpretation of the ruling to address the current situation.
According to Chey Tech, Thai forces have been carrying out activities including laying barbed wire, digging trenches, building structures, and constructing stairways leading toward Phnom Trop. He said similar actions have also been reported near Keo Sikha Kiri Svara pagoda, an area already addressed in past International Court of Justice rulings in Cambodia’s favor.
He claimed that Thai troops have been moving into Cambodian territory daily, while Cambodia has so far relied on diplomatic measures, evidence gathering, and potential legal steps. He also alleged that Thailand has not consistently respected diplomatic agreements, including a joint statement issued in October 2025.
The researcher said that despite Cambodia’s position, the situation raises questions about why the government has not yet filed a case with the International Court of Justice, allowing what he described as continued encroachment.
Tensions reportedly escalated on April 4, 2026, when Thai troops laid around 100 meters of barbed wire, deployed armored vehicles, and cleared land near the northern area of Keo Sikha Kiri Svara pagoda. The activity led to a verbal confrontation with Cambodian soldiers at the scene.
As of now, the Cambodian government has not confirmed whether Thai forces have withdrawn from the disputed positions.
In a statement released on April 5, 2026, Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said it strongly opposed what it described as repeated unlawful actions by Thai armed forces in areas under illegal occupation in Preah Vihear province.
The ministry stated that Thai troops had cleared land near the temple, laid approximately 100 meters of barbed wire, and deployed armored vehicles in the Bos Sbov and Cham Te areas.
Cambodia rejected any attempt to alter the situation on the ground through territorial occupation, saying such actions violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity under the 1904 Franco-Siamese Convention and the 1907 treaty.
The Cambodia Daily said it had not yet been able to reach government spokesperson Pen Bona for comment at the time of publication.
