Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement condemning the Cambodian military’s actions, accusing them of violating Thailand’s sovereignty and displaying clear hostility. The Thai government has affirmed its readiness to enhance self-defense measures in response to the situation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorndej Plangoon, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced that the Ministry conveyed its position on the Thai-Cambodian situation in a briefing with the diplomatic corps. During the session, two letters were submitted: one to the Cambodian authorities protesting the incident on July 16, 2025, where Thai soldiers encountered a landmine, and another to the Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Japan to the Conference on Disarmament, as the Chair of the Ottawa Convention, reporting Cambodia’s breach of its obligations.
Following the submission of these letters, the Thai government expressed regret over the recurring violence along the Thai-Cambodian border. This morning, the Cambodian military reportedly opened fire across from the Thai Prasat Ta Muen Thom base in Surin Province and launched two BM 21 rockets into the Kab Choeng Border Development Center, resulting in injuries to three civilians. These attacks on non-military targets have persisted, notably affecting Phanom Dong Rak Hospital, causing multiple casualties. Additionally, Thai soldiers were injured by a landmine on July 23, 2025, in Udon Ratchathani Province.
Mr. Nikorndet detailed the Thai government’s strong condemnation of the Cambodian military’s actions, highlighting violations of Thai sovereignty and international law, including the secret planting of mines and continued attacks on civilian areas. In response to these hostile actions, Thailand has taken steps to downgrade diplomatic relations, recalling its Ambassador from Phnom Penh and requesting the Cambodian Ambassador to return to Thailand.
The Thai government has urged Cambodia to cease its violations of international law and take responsibility for the incidents. It has also emphasized its commitment to increasing self-defense measures if attacks continue. Mr. Nikorndet announced a National Security Council meeting to discuss the situation and coordinate efforts across security, diplomacy, and border management to ensure public safety.
In response to questions about Thailand’s adherence to principles of peace and bilateral negotiations, Mr. Nikorndet reiterated Thailand’s commitment to international law, UN rules, and the ASEAN Charter, underscoring the country’s patience and reasonable defense of its sovereignty. He noted that ASEAN countries have not yet intervened in the situation.
Addressing inquiries about the potential severing of diplomatic relations, Mr. Nikorndet explained that Thailand has taken initial steps by recalling ambassadors but stressed the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels for negotiation and protecting Thai citizens in Cambodia.
Regarding the international stage, Mr. Nikorndet affirmed that Thailand has been proactive in engaging with international bodies. The Minister of Foreign Affairs is currently in New York, meeting with the President of the Security Council and other key international figures to address the situation. The Ministry is actively working to protect Thailand’s sovereignty and interests through discussions with global partners.