07/26/2025
This article was originally intended to be published earlier this morning. However, due to certain unforeseen circumstances, the release had to be delayed. While the information may now appear less current, I still believe it remains relevant and beneficial for readers who seek a deeper understanding of the issue. In this analysis, I aim to highlight both strengths and weaknesses from both Cambodia and Thailand. However, for the purpose of this article, I will focus specifically on the shortcomings of the Thai side.
Key Points of Concern Regarding the Thai Party:
The Thai side initially attempted to portray itself as a benevolent neighbor, having assisted Cambodia since its independence. Yet this narrative quickly shifted when the matter reached the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Despite claiming to value peace and oppose violence, Thailand now justifies its actions by asserting a need to defend itself from Cambodian aggression. It seems the Thai delegation underestimated the discernment of UNSC members, who are certainly not passive moviegoers but rather qualified, rational actors capable of critical judgment. It is simply not convincing to claim that a nation of 17 million like Cambodia would attempt to invade or provoke a country of nearly 80 million.
Thailand has accused Cambodia of initiating the conflict by firing first on the morning of July 24. However, Thailand has failed to present any clear or credible evidence to substantiate this claim. The United Nations requires neutral, jointly acknowledged evidence from both parties, and although obtaining such proof is challenging, it is not impossible.
Although the Thai Foreign Minister traveled personally to the UN Headquarters, the Thai delegation lagged behind Cambodia’s efforts, as Cambodia had already submitted its official letter earlier. Historically, Thailand has shown reluctance toward third-party mediation. Once it became clear that the situation could no longer be avoided, Thailand scrambled to gather and present information to appear as the victim. One common tactic involves collecting social media content—primarily posted by Cambodian users—including footage of shelling and civilian casualties, along with hospital scenes and damaged commercial buildings. This information was often exaggerated, especially in reporting civilian death tolls, revealing an underlying attempt to control the narrative.
Thailand admitted to using cluster munitions, albeit under the guise of self-defense. Nonetheless, such actions clearly violate international conventions. The international community is not easily swayed by such justifications.
Thailand has further accused Cambodia of avoiding dialogue and deliberately provoking conflict for its own political gain. However, pointing one finger at Cambodia overlooks the fact that three fingers point back. Notably, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently chairs ASEAN, has already spoken as a key witness in this matter.
While the UNSC’s closed-door meeting was not designed to produce any binding resolutions, it provided a platform for both sides to present testimony. Cambodia’s appeal was heard clearly by the Council, resulting in three key recommendations:
Both sides must exercise maximum restraint.
All acts of armed violence must cease immediately.
A peaceful solution to the dispute must be pursued through diplomatic means.
A notable post-meeting development was Thailand’s refusal to give interviews to the press, avoiding all journalists stationed outside the venue—an action that speaks volumes.
It’s also important to understand the structure and purpose of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Established under the UN Charter, the UNSC holds the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The Council consists of 15 member countries: five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten non-permanent members elected on a rotational basis. For the 2025 term, the elected non-permanent members include Algeria, Guyana, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia.
The UNSC is empowered to convene meetings on matters affecting global peace and security, and it may summon conflicting parties to present their positions and explore peaceful resolutions. In this specific case concerning the Cambodia-Thailand dispute, the meeting was held in a private format, with both parties allowed to provide statements and relevant testimony.
Cambodia was represented by H.E. Keo Chhea, a senior and seasoned diplomat with extensive experience and deep knowledge in foreign affairs. His wife also holds a senior position at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is herself an accomplished diplomat.
