BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Army has released an official clarification addressing recent clashes and escalating tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border, asserting that Cambodian forces initiated the conflict and repeatedly violated ceasefire agreements.
According to the Thai military, Cambodian troops began deploying forces and constructing bunkers and trenches in the Chong Bok area between March and May 2025. Aerial images show evidence of encroachment into Thai territory. Tensions escalated when Thai soldiers from Infantry Company 6021 were injured by anti-personnel mines allegedly planted by Cambodian forces. One soldier suffered a traumatic amputation.
In its statement, the Royal Thai Army condemned Cambodia’s use of civilians to create provocative content in border zones, as well as the use of combat firepower, including mortars, artillery, and BM-21 rocket launchers, against Thai positions. These attacks extended to civilian targets, with damage reported to homes, hospitals, and local businesses.
On 24 July, a BM-21 rocket struck a convenience store in Si Sa Ket province, killing several civilians, including two children. Over a five-day period, a total of 15 Thai civilians were reported killed and 36 injured due to the conflict.
Despite a ceasefire agreement, Thai authorities documented repeated violations by Cambodian forces. Between 29 and 30 July, Thailand recorded multiple incidents involving drones, firearms, grenades, mortars, and even tank movement. In one case, more than 500 Cambodian troops were deployed to frontline positions near the border.
The Thai government also addressed a wave of disinformation campaigns allegedly spread by Cambodia, including fabricated images accusing Thailand of chemical attacks and misuse of heavy weapons. One widely circulated image, promoted by senior Cambodian figures, was proven to be unrelated and traced back to a U.S. wildfire response in Los Angeles earlier this year.
In response to Cambodia’s claims that Thailand had undermined its sovereignty, the Royal Thai Army reaffirmed that all Thai military operations have been lawful, proportionate, and focused solely on defense. It emphasized that Thailand has only targeted military threats and has sought to avoid civilian harm.
Thailand has called on the international community to objectively assess the situation and support renewed bilateral dialogue to de-escalate tensions. It also condemned Cambodia’s decision to invite foreign military attachés into active combat zones, calling it a reckless and provocative move.
The Royal Thai Armed Forces concluded by urging Cambodia to cease false accusations and instead commit to sincere diplomatic engagement aimed at restoring peace and stability along the border. (NNT)
