Cambodia Security Report — September 27, 2026

Security analysis based on open-source intelligence and web research. Period: September 20 — September 27, 2026.

Executive Summary

Cambodia's security landscape from September 20 to September 27, 2026, was primarily shaped by intensified diplomatic efforts to resolve long-standing border disputes with Thailand and a high-profile crackdown on transnational online scam operations. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn addressed the UN General Assembly, advocating for a fair and lasting settlement with Thailand, including maritime claims and the return of displaced civilians. Concurrently, Phnom Penh hosted an international conference on combating online scams, showcasing significant arrests and compound closures, underscoring a commitment to tackling cybercrime under international pressure. Relations with China remained robust, marked by reaffirmations of strategic partnership and economic investment, while preparations continued for the resumption of joint military exercises with the United States in 2027, signaling a strategic balancing act in its foreign policy. These developments highlight Cambodia's focus on enhancing national security through diplomatic resolution, combating transnational crime, and navigating complex geopolitical alignments.

Key Security Developments

• Diplomatic Engagement on Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute
  On September 26, 2026, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn addressed the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, calling for a "fair and lasting" settlement of disputes with Thailand. He highlighted recent tensions and conflicts that "seriously eroded trust and confidence," urging the full implementation of agreements and the prompt resumption of survey and demarcation work through their Joint Boundary Commission. Sokhonn also noted that over 20,000 Cambodian civilians remain unable to return home due to unresolved border issues. This signifies Cambodia's proactive stance in seeking international mediation and adherence to international law for territorial integrity.

• Maritime Dispute with Thailand Enters UN Conciliation
  Cambodia initiated compulsory conciliation proceedings under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) after Thailand terminated a 2001 memorandum governing their maritime dispute. The first meeting of the Conciliation Commission took place in Singapore from September 14 to 16, 2026, with the next phase scheduled for The Hague. Cambodia seeks a comprehensive boundary settlement or, alternatively, a joint development and equitable resource-sharing arrangement. This move aims to resolve a decades-long dispute over resource-rich waters in the Gulf of Thailand.

• International Conference on Combating Online Scams (ICCOS-2026)
  Phnom Penh hosted the International Conference on Combating Online Scams (ICCOS-2026) from September 23 to 24, 2026, bringing together delegations from 30 nations and international bodies, including the US and China. The conference aimed to demonstrate Cambodia's political will and lead a coordinated international response against technology-based crime, with Prime Minister Hun Manet presiding over the opening. This event underscores Cambodia's commitment to addressing a significant transnational security threat that has damaged its international reputation.

• Major Crackdown on Online Scam Operations
  Cambodian authorities showcased their crackdown on online scam operations, with Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior Touch Sokhak reporting that over 20,000 suspects of 38 nationalities were detained during the first six months of 2026. Authorities raided 488 online-scam locations, with 2,637 suspects referred to court. On September 21, 2026, officials led journalists to a shuttered 120-hectare scam center in Prey Veng province, which previously employed around 20,000 scammers and included a fake police station. This highlights a significant effort to dismantle large-scale cybercrime syndicates within Cambodia.

• Strengthening "Ironclad Friendship" with China
  On September 22, 2026, Cambodia and China reaffirmed their "ironclad friendship" and comprehensive strategic partnership during celebrations for the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin noted a 26% increase in Cambodia-China trade volume to $12.7 billion in the first eight months of 2026, with Chinese investment accounting for 52.8% of Cambodia's total investment. China also reaffirmed its commitment to encouraging direct investments in Cambodia's economic development and key mega-projects, including the Funan Techo Integrated Water Resources Management Project. This signifies the continued deepening of economic and political ties.

• Cambodia-China Cooperation on Anti-Scam Efforts
  On September 24, 2026, Cambodia and China expressed deep satisfaction over the results of their cooperation in cracking down on online scams and other transnational crimes. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha welcomed Chinese Vice Minister of Public Security Yang Weilin to co-chair a meeting reviewing law enforcement cooperation and signing a Work Plan for continued collaboration. This bilateral cooperation is crucial given the significant involvement of Chinese-led criminal gangs in the scam industry.

• Resumption of Joint Military Exercises with the US
  Cambodia's army announced on September 4, 2026, that it would resume joint military exercises with the United States, "Exercise Angkor Sentinel 2027," in February 2027, after a nearly decade-long suspension. The Initial Planning Conference (IPC) for the exercise was held from August 31 to September 4, 2026, involving the Royal Cambodian Army, US Army Pacific, and the Idaho National Guard. This move aims to strengthen military interoperability and disaster-response capabilities, reflecting renewed momentum in Cambodia-U.S. military cooperation.

• US President Trump Highlights Role in Cambodia-Thailand Ceasefire
  On September 22, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking at the UN General Assembly, highlighted Cambodia's appreciation for his diplomatic role in helping broker a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. Prime Minister Hun Manet had previously praised Trump's efforts in securing an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. This indicates a positive, albeit complex, diplomatic engagement between Cambodia and the US, particularly concerning regional stability.

Geopolitical Impact and Regional Dynamics

Cambodia's recent security and diplomatic activities underscore its intricate balancing act within the broader Southeast Asian geopolitical landscape, particularly concerning its relationships with major powers like China and the United States. The renewed diplomatic push at the UN General Assembly to resolve border and maritime disputes with Thailand, including the UNCLOS conciliation process, demonstrates Cambodia's commitment to international law and multilateralism in managing regional tensions. This approach, if successful, could serve as a model for peaceful dispute resolution in a region often characterized by competing territorial claims.

The robust "ironclad friendship" with China continues to be a cornerstone of Cambodia's foreign policy, with significant Chinese investment pledges and increased trade reinforcing economic ties. China's financial backing for mega-projects like the Funan Techo Canal is seen as a strategic re-routing of Cambodia's economic bloodstream, potentially reducing dependence on Vietnamese transshipment. This deep economic reliance on China, however, raises concerns among Western powers, particularly the US, about Beijing's growing influence and potential military presence, such as at the Ream Naval Base.

Simultaneously, Cambodia's decision to resume joint military exercises with the United States, "Angkor Sentinel 2027," after a decade-long hiatus, signals a strategic effort to diversify its security partnerships and enhance interoperability with Western forces. This move, alongside the US President's acknowledgment of his role in the Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire, suggests a thawing of previously strained relations with Washington. This "active neutrality" strategy allows Cambodia to professionalize its forces through Western standards while maintaining strong ties with China, navigating the complex dynamics of great power competition in the Indo-Pacific. The international conference on combating online scams, co-sponsored by Interpol, UNODC, and China's Lancang Mekong Cooperation, further highlights a convergence of interests among various international actors in addressing transnational crime originating from the region.

Military and Defense Analysis

Cambodia's military and defense posture during this period reflects a strategic emphasis on modernization, enhanced maritime capabilities, and a nuanced approach to international defense partnerships. The Royal Cambodian Army's decision to resume the "Angkor Sentinel" joint military exercises with the United States in February 2027, following an Initial Planning Conference from August 31 to September 4, 2026, marks a significant step towards strengthening military interoperability and disaster-response capabilities with a Western partner. This move, after a decade-long suspension, indicates a desire to diversify its defense training and move towards "active neutrality" by professionalizing its forces through Western standards.

While the recent period did not feature new defense acquisitions, earlier reports from April 2026 highlighted Cambodia's receipt of a modern Type 056C corvette from China, the first of two, significantly bolstering its maritime defense capabilities and reinforcing its ability to safeguard territorial waters, particularly against potential Thai encroachment. The expanded Ream Naval Base, developed with Chinese assistance, remains a point of interest, with the US expressing concerns about potential Chinese military presence, though Cambodian officials have repeatedly denied this.

Defense spending for 2026 saw a record draft national budget exceeding $10 billion, a 7.8% increase from 2025, with a greater focus on the defense sector. This increased allocation supports ongoing modernization programs. India has also offered to assist in modernizing Cambodia's armed forces with advanced military technology, including demining equipment and surveillance drones, further diversifying Cambodia's defense technology sources. The focus on demining is particularly relevant given the estimated $1 billion cost and decade-long effort required to clear unexploded ordnance from the 2025 Cambodia-Thailand border clashes.

Outlook and Forecast

Short-term trends (1-3 months): In the immediate future, Cambodia will likely continue its diplomatic offensive to resolve the border and maritime disputes with Thailand. The ongoing UNCLOS conciliation process, with its next phase in The Hague, will be a key focus, and any progress or setbacks will significantly influence bilateral relations. The momentum from the International Conference on Combating Online Scams will likely translate into continued domestic crackdowns and enhanced international cooperation on cybercrime, with a strong emphasis on intelligence sharing and joint enforcement operations. Preparations for the "Angkor Sentinel 2027" joint military exercises with the US will intensify, with further planning meetings and logistical arrangements expected. Economically, Chinese investment, particularly in infrastructure projects like the Funan Techo Canal, will continue to be a driving force, reinforcing Cambodia's economic ties with Beijing.

Critical flashpoints and risk areas: The Cambodia-Thailand land and maritime borders remain critical flashpoints. Despite diplomatic efforts, the unresolved issues, including the return of displaced civilians and the maritime resource dispute, carry the risk of renewed tensions. The effectiveness and sustainability of Cambodia's crackdown on online scams will be closely watched; if criminal networks adapt or relocate, it could lead to renewed international pressure and reputational damage. The delicate balance in Cambodia's relations with the US and China, particularly concerning the Ream Naval Base, could become a flashpoint if suspicions of exclusive Chinese military access are substantiated, potentially drawing Cambodia into greater geopolitical competition.

Indicators to monitor: Key indicators to monitor include the outcomes of the UNCLOS conciliation process with Thailand and any bilateral agreements reached on land border demarcation. The number and scale of arrests and successful prosecutions related to online scams, along with the dismantling of remaining scam compounds, will be crucial for assessing the effectiveness of anti-cybercrime efforts. Further details and the actual execution of the Angkor Sentinel 2027 exercises will indicate the depth and scope of renewed US-Cambodia military cooperation. Monitoring Chinese investment patterns and any new defense acquisitions from either China or other partners will provide insights into Cambodia's strategic alignments and military modernization trajectory.

Strategic recommendations: Cambodia should prioritize sustained, high-level diplomatic engagement with Thailand to achieve a comprehensive and lasting resolution to both land and maritime disputes, leveraging international legal frameworks and regional bodies like ASEAN. Domestically, a robust and transparent approach to combating online scams, including addressing corruption that may facilitate these operations, is essential to rebuild international trust and attract legitimate investment. Strategically, Cambodia should continue to pursue a diversified foreign policy that allows for engagement with both China and the United States, carefully managing the perceptions and realities of its defense partnerships to avoid being seen as exclusively aligned with one major power. Investing in independent defense capabilities and human resource development for its armed forces will enhance its sovereignty and reduce external dependencies.

Sources

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