Sisaket: Families affected by the deadly border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have expressed their disagreement with the Thai government’s current approach to negotiations with Cambodia, accusing the neighboring country of intentionally violating agreements. While some villagers remain hopeful for peace, they demand concrete outcomes from the ongoing discussions.

According to Thai News Agency, residents like Khomsan from Nong Diang Noi village in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, are dissatisfied with the government’s stance on engaging with Cambodia. Khomsan, who lost his wife and two children to a rocket attack during the initial clashes on July 24th, is critical of the pursuit of negotiations without addressing Cambodia’s alleged violations. He recalls his past family life and the shared tasks during harvest, underscoring his personal loss and the ongoing tension at the border.

The border situation remains unresolved nearly four months after the clashes, with accusations of Cambodia continuing to breach international law and peace agreements. The affected families are calling for more decisive international actions that would exert pressure on Cambodia rather than mere condemnations, which they believe are ineffective.

The Samapong family, who also suffered from the conflict, exemplifies the ongoing human toll. Ta Sutin and Yai Khian, parents of Sergeant Major Thetsak Samapong, are grappling with their son’s severe injuries after he stepped on a landmine. Despite his recovery from an amputation, the injuries continue to cause pain and concern for his parents, who express distrust towards Cambodia due to its alleged provocations and violations.

While the harvest season sees villagers drying rice on roads, the demand for decisive governmental action remains strong. Some community members are open to negotiations but stress the importance of achieving tangible outcomes. They acknowledge that these views represent those directly affected but remain open to better solutions if they prove effective.