BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlined that dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia can only move forward if Cambodia is genuinely sincere, July 27. Mr. Nikorndej Balankura, Director-General of the Department of Information and spokesperson for the Ministry, criticized Cambodia for saying one thing but doing another, including using civilians and heritage sites as shields, and spreading false and distorted information. Experts have confirmed that Cambodia has even reused old images to mislead.
Mr. Nikorndej held a press conference addressing the Thailand-Cambodia border situation. He explained that Saturday night, Acting Prime Minister Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump. Thailand firmly reiterated its position to resolve the border conflict peacefully, particularly through bilateral talks. Thailand consistently hopes to see genuine commitment from Cambodia to cease violence, especially attacks on civilian targets. If Cambodia sincerely wants to resolve the issue, Thailand is ready to discuss clear, peaceful, and sustainable measures.
Mr. Nikorndej added that recent Cambodian attacks on Thai territory, including last night’s multiple border assaults, show a lack of sincerity. Cambodia’s words and actions are inconsistent.
He stated, “They say one thing but do another, continuing to violate fundamental humanitarian principles by attacking indiscriminately, meaning civilians are being targeted. This should never happen to Thailand. As a responsible member of the international community, Thailand cannot ignore Cambodia’s inhumane acts.”
He further condemned Cambodia’s disregard for human dignity by placing military bases near schools, temples, and civilian homes to avoid Thai retaliation, effectively using human shields. Attacks on Thai field hospitals and other medical facilities by Cambodian forces violate not only Thailand’s sovereignty and territorial integrity but also international laws, including UN regulations and humanitarian law. Thai security forces have clear evidence of these incidents. Consequently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning Cambodia’s use of heavy weapons against civilian homes in Surin Province. Cambodia has also spread false information accusing Thailand of being the aggressor.
Mr. Nikorndej reiterated this condemnation, noting that earlier today, Mr. Marit Sengiampongsa, Thai Minister of Foreign Affairs, sent letters to two UN bodies—UNICEF and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)—confirming that Cambodia initiated hostilities from July 24 onward. Cambodian actions forced civilians to flee, obstructed medical care, and led to school closures causing long-term damage. These acts violate Cambodia’s international obligations under human rights and humanitarian laws, especially concerning women, children, and persons with disabilities. The Ministry urged these organizations to use their mandates to pressure Cambodia to cease these acts.
Mr. Nikorndej emphasized that while he spoke, Cambodia continued attacking multiple Thai border areas, yet portrayed itself as a responsible global member while disseminating false narratives claiming Thailand was the aggressor. Cambodia’s attempts to damage Thailand’s stability, credibility, and image globally are blatant.
He gave a clear example: Cambodia’s baseless accusations that Thailand attacked and damaged the Preah Vihear Temple since July 24. Today, Cambodia issued another statement making the same claim. Mr. Nikorndej clarified that these accusations are unfounded and fabricated. Thai forces did not attack Preah Vihear, which lies two kilometers from Cambodia’s firing positions, making such shelling impossible. Cambodia even circulated images whose dates cannot be verified; experts say they are old photos showing old bullet marks.
“The dishonesty of Cambodia is evident through false reports and data fabrication. Beyond tactics using civilians as shields, Cambodia deliberately uses heritage sites as shields to attack Thai positions. For decades, Thailand has demonstrated to the international community its commitment to universal principles at both regional and global levels. Thailand’s necessary countermeasures against Cambodia are legitimate rights under the UN Charter, particularly the right to self-defense from Cambodian aggression. Thailand’s responses have been proportionate and strictly limited to necessary military targets. All Thai actions remain within international law, humanitarian principles, and responsibilities as a UN member,” Mr. Nikorndej stated.
He urged citizens to be cautious with communications, especially online, where misinformation could unintentionally cause division. The government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Thai embassies and consulates, has continuously clarified the facts to countries and international organizations.
During a Q&A session, Mr. Nikorndej was asked about reports that Acting Prime Minister Mr. Phumtham would meet Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Malaysia tomorrow. He confirmed talks have started and that Thailand coordinated discussions after Acting PM Phumtham spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump. He said he could only confirm what’s publicly known, as further details are sensitive.
Regarding whether the Ministry had been informed about the discussions, he confirmed it had.
When asked about reports of Foreign Ministers from both countries talking at noon today, he confirmed there were discussions facilitated by the U.S., acknowledging U.S. and other countries’ efforts to help. President Trump encouraged both sides to talk, but the Foreign Ministers had not yet held direct talks.
When asked if Acting PM Phumtham’s efforts might lead to a ceasefire, he said it’s possible but hinges on Cambodia’s sincerity—the key condition to build trust for talks. Thailand has long sought peaceful solutions via dialogue but insists Cambodia first demonstrate genuine sincerity and trustworthy actions.
Asked about the atmosphere of discussions between Acting PM Phumtham and President Trump, Mr. Nikorndej said he wasn’t present but understood the talks were well-intentioned. Trump highlighted that tax negotiations between the two countries could not proceed amid ongoing conflict. China and Malaysia have also tried to assist, but tax issues complicate matters. Both sides must work hard to talk. Thailand has been ready for dialogue for a long time but questions how much Cambodia can be trusted.
He said the discussion with Trump reflected a friendly nation’s good will. (TNA)
