However, an examination of the original news footage reveals that wide-angle shots of the stage show two screens on either side. The screen on the left clearly displays the national flag of Cambodia. So, the claim that “the Cambodian flag was missing from the meeting” is entirely unfounded.
Thai PBS Verify found the piece of disinformation on: Threads
The social media post claimed that in the meeting of the “Board of Peace,” the Cambodian national flag was missing, despite Cambodia’s attendance. This post has already garnered over 3,400 views and 267 likes.
The post stated, “Serves you right, Hun Manet. No flag, and nobody wants to talk to you.”
Is it true that the Cambodian flag was missing from the “Board of Peace” meeting?
Upon conducting a keyword search for visual evidence from the event, specifically referencing AFP News, wide-angle photographs clearly reveal screens positioned on both sides of the stage. The screen on the left explicitly displayed the national flag of Cambodia.
Image provided caption that “U.S. President Donald Trump delivers a speech during the inaugural meeting of the ‘Board of Peace’ at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) in Washington, D.C., on February 19, 2026.” [Photo: AFP/Saul Loeb]
When magnifying the original image from the event, it is clearly visible that the Cambodian national flag was indeed displayed on the screen during the “Board of Peace” meeting in Washington, D.C., on February 19, 2026. [Photo by AFP]
The “Board of Peace” meeting was established under the White House’s Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict. Its objective is to play a pivotal role in advancing the 20-point peace proposal introduced by President Donald Trump. The board’s mandate encompasses strategic oversight, the mobilization of international resources, and ensuring a stable transition toward peace and development in Gaza. Furthermore, the Board of Peace is intended to evolve into an international organization dedicated to maintaining peace and security in conflict zones worldwide.
Regarding Thailand’s position, the country attended the aforementioned meeting in an observer capacity. According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, dated February 20, 2026 revealed that:
“As Thailand is in the process of forming a new Government, H.E. Mr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, was designated to represent Thailand at the meeting to observe and follow developments of the Board of Peace, which Thailand is currently in the process of consideration and review. Thailand’s participation at the meeting helps to stay informed about the Board’s directions and activities to support Thailand’s subsequent consideration of the matter.”
What is the truth?
Thai PBS Verify examined claims that the Cambodian national flag was missing from the “Board of Peace” meeting screens, despite Cambodia’s attendance.
The team cross-referenced AFP News footage from the event, held in the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C., on February 19, 2026, reveals that wide-angle shots of the stage clearly show two large screens. The screen on the left side explicitly displayed the national flag of Cambodia.
Therefore, the assertion that “the Cambodian flag was absent from the meeting” is false.
