AKP Phnom Penh, March 09, 2026 --

Cambodian authorities have deployed emergency food supplies to more than 1,200 families displaced by rising friction along the country’s border, as landmines and security blockades prevent villagers from returning home.

A Royal Government Task Force, coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, on Sunday distributed meat, poultry, and dry goods to 1,277 families currently sheltering in Buddhist pagodas in Banteay Meanchey province.

"The purpose of our visit is to convey the concern and solidarity of the leadership," said Mr. Chea Chheng, Head of the Royal Government Working Group for O’Chrov district. He added that the Royal Government is closely monitoring the living conditions of those unable to return to their farms.

Banteay Meanchey Deputy Governor Mr. Ly Sovannarith said that the situation remains precarious. He cited the presence of barbed-wire barriers, shipping container blockades by the Thai troops, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) as primary obstacles to resettlement.

While Cambodia pursues diplomatic channels to de-escalate the standoff, the immediate focus remains on the "safety and welfare" of the border communities, he said.

The aid package – bolstered by the Cambodia Livestock Raisers Association – included 1,500 kg of pork, 1,500 kg of chicken, and 14,000 eggs. Each household received a ration of meat and basic condiments at the Chan Sy Ratanaram and Pothi Soryaram safety centres.

For many of the displaced, the aid provides a temporary reprieve from a frozen conflict.

"We cannot yet return to our homes because of fears of landmines and restrictions along the border," said one elderly resident at a local pagoda. "Seeing officials provide these supplies gives us a sense of security."

By K. Rithy Reak