Cambodia Security Report — October 26, 2026

Security analysis based on open-source intelligence and web research. Period: October 19 — October 26, 2026.

Executive Summary

During the period of October 19-26, 2026, Cambodia demonstrated a proactive approach to its security and diplomatic challenges, notably engaging in critical conciliation talks with Thailand over a long-standing maritime dispute in The Hague, where confidence-building measures were agreed upon. Concurrently, the nation intensified its crackdown on pervasive online scam operations, freezing significant assets and seeking international assistance for alleged ringleaders, though questions persist regarding the prosecution of politically connected individuals. Militarily, Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening military diplomacy, announcing upcoming joint exercises with both China and the United States, showcasing a strategic balancing act in its foreign policy. Furthermore, the country continued to emphasize cybersecurity cooperation within ASEAN, while facing renewed accusations from Thailand regarding the militarization of the disputed Preah Vihear Temple area.

Key Security Developments

• Maritime Boundary Dispute with Thailand: From October 14-18, 2026, Cambodia and Thailand held their second meeting of the Conciliation Commission under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in The Hague, Netherlands. Both nations agreed on confidence-building measures, including avoiding hostile rhetoric and establishing direct communication channels between their navies, to foster mutual trust and facilitate an equitable solution to their overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia is pursuing compulsory conciliation under UNCLOS to resolve claims over a seabed estimated to hold US$300 billion in energy reserves. The third meeting is scheduled for November 24-27 in Kuala Lumpur.
• Diplomatic Relations with Thailand: Following the UNCLOS talks, Cambodian Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Prak Sokhonn urged Thailand to restore diplomatic representation to an appropriate level, noting that relations had been downgraded to the second secretary level. This appeal aims to maintain direct communication and resolve disputes through diplomacy rather than military means.
• Crackdown on Online Scam Operations: Cambodian authorities continued their extensive efforts against technology-enabled scams. On October 22, it was announced that assets worth nearly $1 billion linked to the Prince Group were frozen, and INTERPOL assistance was sought to locate 29 alleged ringleaders who had fled abroad. Between July 2025 and the end of September 2026, 910 locations linked to online scam operations were targeted, leading to 529 court cases and the detention of 5,778 suspects. However, concerns remain about the prosecution of politically connected individuals allegedly involved in these networks.
• Military Diplomacy and International Cooperation: On October 25, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia's commitment to strengthening military diplomacy and expanding international cooperation for global peace and security. Speaking at the 20th anniversary of Cambodia's participation in UN peacekeeping operations in Kampong Speu province, he highlighted the signing of a defense Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during his recent visit to Turkey.
• Upcoming Joint Military Exercises: Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that Cambodia is hosting the eighth edition of the Golden Dragon military exercise with China this year. Furthermore, the country is scheduled to conduct the eighth Angkor Sentinel exercise with the United States next year (2027), resuming drills suspended since 2017. Cambodia also plans to host a trilateral peacekeeping exercise involving Cambodia, Japan, and the Republic of Korea in cooperation with the United Nations.
• Mandatory Military Service Applications: In the first half of October, Cambodia began accepting applications for mandatory military service for men aged 18 to 25, following the National Assembly's approval of the Military Service draft law in May. This policy requires two years of service, with a possible six-month extension, and offers voluntary service for women.
• Cybersecurity Cooperation: Cambodia reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening regional and international cybersecurity cooperation, protecting critical information infrastructure, and building a safer digital ecosystem. This commitment was highlighted through its participation in the 11th Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW) and the 11th ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity (AMCC), held from October 12-15.
• Accusations Regarding Preah Vihear Temple: On October 22, the Royal Thai Army accused Cambodia of using the Preah Vihear Temple as a military base, alleging the installation of mortars, artillery, ammunition stores, and anti-drone systems. Thailand views this as a violation of international humanitarian law and a disregard for cultural heritage, asserting its military response is an act of self-defense.
• Deepening Bilateral Relations: On October 19, Prime Minister Hun Manet concluded official visits to Kazakhstan and Türkiye, where Cambodia signed six cooperation documents with Kazakhstan to deepen bilateral relations in trade, investment, digital technology, and tourism. A defense MoU was also signed with Turkey.

Geopolitical Impact and Regional Dynamics

Cambodia's security developments during this period highlight its complex and evolving geopolitical position, particularly its strategic balancing act between major powers and its efforts to manage regional disputes. The ongoing conciliation process with Thailand over the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Thailand, a region rich in natural gas, is a critical test for regional dispute resolution mechanisms under UNCLOS. While both sides have agreed on confidence-building measures, the underlying tensions, exacerbated by accusations of militarization at Preah Vihear, underscore the fragility of peace along their shared border. The outcome of these talks will significantly influence maritime security and resource sharing in Southeast Asia.

Cambodia's renewed engagement in military exercises with both China (Golden Dragon) and the United States (Angkor Sentinel in 2027) demonstrates its non-aligned foreign policy approach, aiming to cultivate defense ties with multiple partners. This strategy allows Phnom Penh to enhance its military capabilities while avoiding over-reliance on a single power, a crucial consideration given the broader US-China rivalry in the Indo-Pacific. The US has previously expressed concerns about China's military presence at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base, making the resumption of Angkor Sentinel a significant step in mending strained relations. However, China's substantial investments and long-standing military cooperation continue to exert considerable influence.

Regionally, Cambodia's active participation in ASEAN's counter-terrorism and cybersecurity initiatives, as seen in its engagement at the Singapore International Cyber Week, reinforces its commitment to collective security in Southeast Asia. The widespread issue of online scams, with Cambodia being a significant hub, has regional and international implications, affecting trust and economic stability. The crackdown, while necessary, also faces scrutiny regarding its reach to powerful figures, which could impact Cambodia's international reputation and relations with countries like the US, which has sanctioned individuals linked to these operations.

Military and Defense Analysis

Cambodia's military and defense posture during this period reflects a dual focus on internal security and external diplomatic engagement. The introduction of mandatory military service for young men aged 18-25, with applications opening in October, marks a significant shift in defense policy, aimed at bolstering the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) manpower and readiness. This move could address long-term recruitment needs and enhance national defense capabilities.

The emphasis on military diplomacy by Prime Minister Hun Manet underscores a strategy of building trust and cooperation through international engagement. The upcoming joint exercises are central to this strategy. The continued Golden Dragon exercises with China indicate a sustained strong defense relationship, likely involving modern equipment and advanced training, as seen in previous iterations. Simultaneously, the planned resumption of Angkor Sentinel with the United States in 2027, after a nearly decade-long hiatus, signals a deliberate effort to diversify military partnerships and improve interoperability with Western forces, particularly in areas like disaster response. The planned trilateral peacekeeping exercise with Japan and South Korea further highlights Cambodia's commitment to multilateral security cooperation and its role in UN peacekeeping operations.

Defense spending trends and capability developments are implicitly linked to these exercises and diplomatic efforts. While specific acquisition details were not prominent in the reporting period, the signing of a defense MoU with Turkey suggests potential for future defense acquisitions or technology transfers. The focus on counter-terrorism and maritime security in joint exercises (e.g., Golden Dragon, and past exercises with Indonesia) indicates a strategic prioritization of these areas, which are crucial for both internal stability and regional security. The accusations from Thailand regarding the militarization of Preah Vihear, if substantiated, would represent a significant and concerning development in Cambodia's force posture along its land border, potentially escalating tensions.

Outlook and Forecast

Short-term trends (1-3 months): In the immediate future, the maritime dispute with Thailand will remain a critical focus. The third meeting of the UNCLOS Conciliation Commission in Kuala Lumpur from November 24-27 will be a key indicator of progress. Cambodia will likely continue to push for the restoration of full diplomatic ties with Thailand to facilitate dialogue. The crackdown on online scam operations is expected to intensify, with authorities likely pursuing more high-profile arrests and asset freezes, potentially leading to further international cooperation requests, including with INTERPOL. The implementation phase of mandatory military service will also commence, with initial recruitment and training efforts underway.

Critical flashpoints and risk areas: The Cambodia-Thailand border, both land and maritime, remains a significant flashpoint. The accusations by Thailand regarding the militarization of Preah Vihear Temple could lead to increased rhetoric and potential localized confrontations if not de-escalated through diplomatic channels. The Gulf of Thailand's disputed maritime zone carries the risk of incidents, especially given the high value of its energy reserves. Domestically, the ongoing anti-scam operations, particularly if they begin to target more politically connected individuals, could create internal political sensitivities.

Indicators to monitor: Key indicators to monitor include the outcomes and tone of the next UNCLOS conciliation meeting, any changes in diplomatic representation between Cambodia and Thailand, and the effectiveness and scope of the anti-scam campaign, particularly regarding high-level prosecutions. Progress on preparations for the Angkor Sentinel 2027 exercise with the US and the Golden Dragon exercise with China will also be important indicators of Cambodia's continued balancing act in its foreign and defense policy. Any further accusations or military movements around the Preah Vihear area should be closely watched.

Strategic recommendations: Cambodia should prioritize sustained diplomatic engagement with Thailand to de-escalate border tensions and find a mutually agreeable solution to the maritime dispute, potentially leveraging ASEAN's good offices. Internally, ensuring the anti-scam crackdown is comprehensive and impartial, regardless of political connections, will be crucial for enhancing Cambodia's international reputation and combating transnational crime effectively. Continuing its strategy of diversified military diplomacy, engaging with both major powers and regional partners, will help Cambodia maintain strategic autonomy and enhance its defense capabilities without becoming overly reliant on a single external actor. Investing further in cybersecurity infrastructure and human resource development, in line with its ASEAN commitments, is also vital to protect its growing digital economy.

Sources

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