In a statement released on 05 Jul 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia has reaffirmed its principled position regarding the ongoing border issues with the Kingdom of Thailand.
The situation escalated on 28 May 2025, when Thai armed forces unlawfully entered Cambodian territory and opened fire on a Cambodian military post in Techo Morokot Village, Morokot Commune, Cham Khsan District, Preah Vihear Province. This unprovoked act resulted in the tragic loss of a Cambodian soldier's life.
The Royal Government of Cambodia issued an official protest, firmly condemning this grave violation of Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, an act in clear contravention of the United Nations Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the core principles of international law. Cambodia has called for an independent and impartial investigation into the incident and demands accountability and justice for its fallen soldier.
In the face of this unjustified use of force, Cambodia has exercised utmost restraint and taken responsible measures to de-escalate tensions, including sustained communication and engagement at various levels of government and military. However, the situation has deteriorated further, with increased military deployments on the Thai side prompting necessary defensive measures by Cambodia.
Cambodia's decision to refer the dispute over four long-unresolved areas – namely Tamone Thom Temple, Tamone Touch Temple, Ta Krabey Temple, and the Mom Bei area – to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is a peaceful and lawful measure that reflects Cambodia's unwavering commitment to international law and the rules-based international order.
Other ASEAN members have likewise turned to the ICJ to resolve territorial disputes with success and mutual respect. Cambodia remains open to the existing bilateral mechanisms for resolving the remaining sections of the border in accordance with international law, with the exception of the four disputed areas.
Cambodia once again urges the Kingdom of Thailand to demonstrate good faith by accepting the jurisdiction of the ICJ in this matter. Such a step would uphold its international obligations under the UN Charter and reflect a sincere commitment to achieving a just, fair, and peaceful resolution – one that would contribute to long-term peace and stability for both nations and the region at large.
Cambodia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes based on international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. Cambodia aspires to transform the shared border into a zone of peace, stability, cooperation, and development for the mutual benefit of both peoples.
At the same time, Cambodia will resolutely safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity – rights guaranteed to all sovereign states under international law – and expects its neighbor to act in the same spirit of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
In conclusion, Cambodia's decision to refer the dispute to the ICJ is a significant step towards resolving the ongoing border disputes with Thailand. The move reflects Cambodia's commitment to international law and its desire for peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.