AKP Phnom Penh, July 26, 2025 -- Cambodia did not initiate the escalation of border tensions but is instead the victim of Thailand’s aggressive military invasion, affirmed Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence.

She stated that Thailand’s hostile actions—beginning at the Tamone Thom Temple and expanding into other areas within internationally recognised Cambodian territory—constitute clear violations of international law, including the United Nations Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia. Cambodia, she said, strongly condemns the Thai aggression.

Cambodia remains committed to a peaceful resolution in accordance with international law, including through the mechanisms of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). However, the Kingdom reserves its legitimate right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, she stressed.

“The Cambodian army will not yield to Thai aggression or armed threats. Our forces are determined to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs,” she emphasised.

The Ministry of National Defence also rejected what it called false claims by the Thai side alleging that Cambodia launched the first attack.

“There was no point or target where Cambodia initiated any offensive. We reiterate that Cambodia is the victim of Thai aggression. In exercising our right to self-defence, all Cambodian counterattacks have been strictly limited to Thai military positions, with no intention of targeting civilians,” she underlined.

By Heng Panha