Bangkok: The Thai Army has firmly refuted claims made by the Cambodian Ministry of Defence, accusing them of spreading distorted information and violating bilateral agreements. The Thai Army contends that Cambodia is the party responsible for breaching these agreements, conducting military operations that use human shields and historical sites as cover, in direct violation of international conventions.
According to Thai News Agency, the Cambodian Ministry of Defense issued a statement claiming that the Thai military had launched an indiscriminate attack by firing poisonous gas into O’Bey Cheun commune, a civilian residential area in Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodia. This action was described as a violation of international humanitarian law by the Cambodian authorities.
Major General Winthai Suvari, a spokesman for the Royal Thai Army, responded by urging Cambodia to cease spreading false information intended to mislead its citizens and the international community. He stated that Cambodian troops initiated hostile operations against Thai forces along the Thai-Cambodian border since December 7, 2025, indiscriminately firing small arms and heavy weapons into Thai territory, targeting civilian areas and medical facilities. He cited incidents such as the firing of BM-21 rockets near Phnom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin Province.
These confrontations have resulted in casualties among military personnel and affected civilians in multiple border regions, posing a threat to national security. Consequently, Thailand asserts its right to self-defense and retaliation, targeting only those areas directly impacting its security.
The Royal Thai Army strongly denies the allegations of using poison gas or toxic smoke, arguing that such claims lack any factual basis. Furthermore, the Thai military criticizes Cambodia for allegedly using civilian zones, casinos, and historical sites, like the Preah Vihear and Ta Kwai temples, as shields for military activities.
Recent intelligence suggests that Cambodian forces have been utilizing the Preah Vihear temple area as a military base, equipping it with mortar launchers, artillery, and anti-drone systems, indicating a potential threat to Thailand. This, the Thai Army argues, shows a disregard for the historical site’s sanctity and its misuse for military purposes.
The Royal Thai Army condemns these actions by Cambodia, asserting they breach ceasefire agreements and international humanitarian law. It calls on Cambodia to halt activities that exacerbate tensions and contradict efforts toward peace, warning of the potential escalation of the border conflict.