Thailand’s army has assumed full control of all checkpoints along the border with Cambodia, following heightened tensions after a deadly clash between troops last week. The move comes as Cambodia continues to strengthen its military presence in the area.
In a statement released Saturday, the Thai army said its counterpart had deployed additional troops and equipment near the border, raising concerns after the brief but fatal confrontation in an undemarcated area of Ubon Ratchathani province on May 28, in which a Cambodian soldier was killed.
For days, both governments have exchanged carefully worded statements affirming a commitment to dialogue.
However, Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Saturday reiterated Thailand’s firm stance on protecting its sovereignty and announced plans to bolster defences along the border, after Cambodia rejected a request to pull back from contested zones.
The request was made during talks on Thursday in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, between Mr Phumtham and Cambodian Defence Minister General Tea Seiha.
According to the Phnom Penh Post, Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence responded by rejecting the request, insisting its troops were operating within Cambodian territory and had long been stationed there.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Mr Phumtham — who also serves as deputy prime minister overseeing security affairs — said some of the public information released after the meeting may not accurately reflect the discussions.
“It is regrettable that our proposal aimed at reducing confrontation and fostering peace was rejected,” he said. “Moreover, the Cambodian military reinforcements have escalated tensions.”
“Consequently, the Royal Thai Government has deemed it necessary to implement additional measures and to reinforce our military posture accordingly.”
The Thai army accused Cambodian forces and civilians of repeated incursions into Thai territory.
“These provocations, and the buildup of military forces, indicate a clear intent to use force,” the statement read. It added that the army would now oversee all border checkpoints to maintain order and protect Thai sovereignty.
Cambodia’s foreign ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment from international media.
Long-Standing Dispute
The Thai-Cambodian border, stretching 817 kilometres, has been a point of contention for more than a century. The original demarcation, created by French colonial authorities in 1907, has long been disputed by both sides.
Earlier this week, Cambodia said it would take four unresolved border issues to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and urged Thailand to participate.
In response, Mr Phumtham reaffirmed that Thailand does not recognise the ICJ’s jurisdiction and prefers bilateral negotiations.
In his statement, Mr Phumtham outlined four key points that reflect Thailand’s official position, as endorsed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra:
– Thailand will not accept any violations of its sovereignty and will reinforce its defences as necessary.
– I (Mr. Phumtham) affirm my full support for the military in carrying out its duties and extend my encouragement to all personnel safeguarding Thailand’s territory, with every action prioritising the lives, safety and well-being of border residents and the dedicated personnel.
– Thailand has rejected the ICJ’s authority since 1960 and continues to support the use of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) as the basis for bilateral talks. The MOU recognises the Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) as the appropriate mechanism to resolve disputes peacefully.
– Both sides should return their forces to the original positions observed in 2024 to help reduce tensions and avoid further confrontation.
“Finally, I confirm that I never support any actions by anyone that violate Thailand’s sovereignty,” Mr Phumtham said.
“The government and military will together stand ready to protect the country to the fullest extent.”
