Phnom Penh, August 3, 2025 — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha has issued an official letter to the provincial governors of ten border provinces, outlining a temporary ban on the launch of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in response to ongoing sovereignty concerns with Thailand.

The directive, addressed to the governors of Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Pailin, Pursat, Koh Kong, Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, and the strategic border provinces, emphasizes the importance of maintaining security and social stability amid recent border tensions. The government’s response aims to prevent incidents that may jeopardize territorial integrity.

In the letter, Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha urges provincial authorities to disseminate the instructions to the public widely, insisting that the use of UAVs within these regions is strictly prohibited for a period of 15 days starting from the receipt of the directive. The ban is intended to safeguard national sovereignty as Cambodia continues to address border disputes with Thailand.

The directive specifies that any violations involving UAV launches will be subject to penalties and administrative sanctions in accordance with existing laws. Provincial administrations are instructed to intensify monitoring and control efforts, ensuring strict compliance and reporting daily updates to the Ministry of Interior via the General Department of Administration.

This measure reflects the Cambodian government’s ongoing commitment to protecting its territorial sovereignty and maintaining public order in sensitive border areas. The government has previously underscored the importance of diplomatic channels and lawful conduct in resolving border issues.

The Ministry of Interior has emphasized the importance of cooperation among provincial authorities to uphold national security and safeguard Cambodia's territorial integrity amid ongoing border negotiations and disputes.