AKP Phnom Penh, July 15, 2025 --

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, has issued a strong demand for a public apology from a former Thai solider involved in an assault on Cambodian soldier.

H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha warned that failure to issue a public apology could lead to the case being pursued in court.

Speaking at a homecoming ceremony for Multi-Role Engineering Unit 468 from their UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic this morning, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha emphasised that Cambodia has no intention of letting the incident fade quietly. He insisted that a public apology is essential to appease Cambodian citizens and ensure accountability for the actions taken.

The incident in question involved two Thai nationals, one reportedly in a Thai military uniform, who attacked a Cambodian soldier on guard at Ta Moan Temple before escaping. The assault triggered significant public outrage across Cambodia.

While reports indicate the individuals have offered a private apology, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha underscored the need for a public statement to genuinely de-escalate tensions and demonstrate sincerity. He affirmed that Cambodian authorities are closely monitoring the situation and that the case will not be easily dismissed.

H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha reiterated Cambodia's commitment to resolving disputes with Thailand utilising both international mechanisms for issues concerning the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch, and Ta Krabei Temples and Mom Bei areas, and bilateral channels for the remaining border issues.

Furthermore, he urged Thailand to unilaterally reopen all border gates before Cambodia reciprocates, stating that there would be no negotiations on this specific issue.

The Deputy Prime Minister concluded by affirming Cambodia's readiness to respond to any incursion by Thai forces across land, water, or air. Despite this firm stance, he reaffirmed Cambodia's desire for continued cooperation and development between the two nations as good neighbours, looking toward the return to the situation before May 28, 2025.

By K. Rithy Reak