In a significant escalation of tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, Cambodia has called for the release of 20 soldiers currently held by Thailand after a series of border clashes. The conflict, which has seen infantry skirmishes, rocket fire from Cambodian forces, and retaliatory air strikes from Thailand, has resulted in the deaths of over 30 individuals, including civilians, and displaced more than 260,000 people.
Recent bloodshed had occurred over a disputed border region. Cambodian assertions that their troops moved toward Thai positions with friendly intentions are rejected by Thai officials. According to reports, they wanted to make a first-blushing advance greeting after the wars ended. Thai officials insist with great confidence that their legal actions are above board. Now they’re assessing the conduct of the five Cambodian soldiers still in US custody.
To further complicate the situation, Thailand recently repatriated two Cambodian soldiers taken captive during the skirmishes. These soldiers were turned over at a checkpoint connecting Thailand’s Surin province with Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey. The return took place against the backdrop of continued advocacy on behalf of other Cambodian staff members remaining in detention with Thai officials.
Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol has recently garnered national and international headlines. He intends to nominate United States President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Chanthol pointed out that the role Trump played in brokering a ceasefire makes this nomination particularly noteworthy. Tensions remain high between the two countries. Next week, military officials from China, Russia, and the United States will meet in Malaysia to discuss means of de-escalating the tensions.
The recent skirmishes have highlighted stark contrasting narratives from both Cambodia and Thailand regarding the circumstances of the soldiers’ capture.
“We are acting in accordance with international humanitarian law.” – Maly Socheata, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Defence Ministry
