The Ministry of Interior cites significant infrastructure damage and humanitarian concerns following the 2025 ceasefire non-compliance.
PHNOM PENH —The Royal Government of Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior released a comprehensive update on Saturday, August 8, 2026, regarding the status of displaced persons and civilian infrastructure damage along the border. The Ministry expressed grave concern that despite the ceasefire in effect since December 27, 2025, the Thai side has failed to fully implement the joint communiqués established during the 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC).
According to official data, while 540 individuals recently returned to their homes, approximately 19,741 displaced persons—including 10,013 women and 6,066 children—remain unable to repatriate. The Ministry highlighted the continued suspension of essential services in Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, and Preah Vihear provinces, where 15 schools and seven healthcare facilities remain closed due to the lingering effects of the conflict and ongoing territorial violations.
The report further detailed extensive damage to civilian assets, including 1,558 private residences, 26 schools, 14 hospitals, and several cultural sites, including four ancient temples. In a firm diplomatic rebuttal, the Ministry dismissed recent claims by the Royal Thai Army spokesperson suggesting only 4,000 Cambodians remain displaced. Phnom Penh characterized these figures as “imaginary,” noting they contradict verified data from the ASEAN Observation Team (AOT) and reports by UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews.
The Ministry extended its gratitude to Mr. Andrews for his recognition of the humanitarian crisis affecting over 650,000 Cambodians since the onset of hostilities. The statement concluded with a call for national solidarity behind Prime Minister Hun Manet’s commitment to resolving border issues through peaceful diplomatic channels and international law, aiming to restore sovereignty and stability to the region.