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Thai forces demolish civilian homes amid border tensions with Cambodia

Jan 20, 2026, 9:12 PM10
(Update: Jan 20, 2026, 9:12 PM)
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1970 incursion into eastern Cambodia by US and South Vietnamese forces

Thai forces demolish civilian homes amid border tensions with Cambodia

  • Thai forces have reportedly demolished homes in Cambodian areas claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia.
  • This incident followed a ceasefire that ended military clashes, prompting accusations from Cambodia against Thailand for territorial seizure.
  • The demolitions raise significant concerns regarding violations of international law regarding civilian property destruction in conflict zones.
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On January 20, 2026, a local rights group reported that Thai forces had demolished homes in Cambodia's Banteay Meanchey province in contested border regions. This situation developed after a ceasefire ended military clashes between Thailand and Cambodia that erupted throughout 2025, resulting in significant casualties and displacing around one million people. Following the ceasefire declared in late December, Cambodia accused Thailand of seizing territory and demanded the withdrawal of Thai troops from areas claimed by them. LICADHO highlighted that numerous homes and structures were razed by Thai forces in territories both nations claim, which also violates international laws regarding civilian property destruction during conflicts. The tensions are rooted in a historical border dispute dating back to colonial times, exacerbated by military engagements at various points in recent years. Despite allegations from Cambodia regarding illegal annexation, the Thai military maintains that its presence is within areas historically belonging to Thailand. Furthermore, more than 127,000 Cambodians remain displaced due to the unrest, with the Thai foreign ministry asserting that its military actions align with existing ceasefire agreements. Cambodia's foreign ministry condemned the destruction of homes, asserting violations of international law and calling for Thailand to respect sovereignty and cease actions viewed as territorial encroachments.

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