Asia is apparently becoming a continent of war as hope of achieving peace in the continent appeared slim since 2023 when fresh wars broke out in the Middle East Asia after Hamas attacked Israel, forcing Israel to launch a multi front wars in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iran and Yemen, this occurred as Russia that has parts of its territory in Asia had in 2022 launched a full-scale war against its neighbouring European country, Ukraine which the multiple wars have led to millions of deaths, with many in the world expecting an end soon, but, while many in the world hoped for permanent end to the deadly wars, another fresh war broke out during the week on Thursday in the South East Asia between Cambodia and Thailand after soldiers from Royal Thai Army of 14th Infantry Battalion on Wednesday stepped on a landmine at Huai Bon, Chong An Ma, Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, within the Thai-Cambodia border area causing severe injury to one Thailand soldier while four other soldiers sustained some level of injuries, making the acting Prime Minister of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai to recall the country’s ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled Cambodia’s ambassador to Thailand, leading to heavy military confrontations starting next day morning, which, Cambodian News Agency on Saturday reported that tens of thousands of innocent Cambodians, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly have been forced to flee the military aggression along the border areas, including Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, and Pursat, and the Royal Thai Army also on Saturday released a video of its men hoisting the Thai flag at a location and stated that the Thai national flag was raised atop Phu Makhuea, following Thai military operations to assault and seize the Phu Makhuea area, where it said the Cambodian forces had been heavily positioned, adding that the area was successfully captured during the evening of war on Friday, while the Prime Minister of Thailand, Paetongtarn Shinawatra who is currently on suspension blamed the cause of the war on alleged powerful criminals in Cambodia, saying, the conflict stems from the Thai government’s efforts to crack down on call center crimes, dismantling a network of immense financial interests linked to influential groups in Cambodia, notwithstanding, the Prime Minister of Cambodia, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet in a statement called on Cambodians not to attack businesses and citizens of Thailand living in Cambodia, adding that, after the Prime Minister of Malaysia and the Rotating Chairman of ASEAN, Anwar Ibrahim intervened in the matter on Thursday, both countries agreed to a ceasefire slated to sart on Friday by 12:00am, but, an hour after Malaysia Prime Minister told him that Thailand has agreed to the ceasefire, Thailand rescinded its decision and continued military actions against Cambodia, and the Cambodia Ministry of National Defense Spokesperson, Lieutenant General Maly Socheata in an operational updates on Saturday, said that Thailand has continued to expand its military; including its infantry Forces, heavy weaponry into Cambodia territory.
According to the Thailand military known as Royal Thai Army, “the Royal Thai Army condemns the Cambodian side for the incident involving the covert placement of landmines in the border area of Chong An Ma, Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, resulted in severe injuries to military personnel.
On 23 July 2025, at approximately 16:55 hours, an incident occurred involving Royal Thai Army personnel from the patrol team of the 14th Infantry Battalion, who encountered a landmine at Huai Bon, Chong An Ma, Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, within the Thai-Cambodia border operational area.
The incident resulted in injuries to five Royal Thai Army personnel, with one soldier sustaining severe injuries to his right leg from stepping on the explosive device, and four others experiencing chest tightness and tinnitus from the blast concussion, they are now being treated at Nam Yuen Hospital.
Tomorrow, General Pana Claewplodtook, Chief of Army, will visit the area to monitor the situation and provide moral support to the injured personnel. He has ordered military forces from the 1st Army Area, the 2nd Army Area, and various units to prepare for operations under the “Chakraphong Phuwanat” plan upon receiving orders.
The Royal Thai Army strongly condemns this inhumane act that violates international humanitarian principles and international agreements, occurring within the Kingdom of Thailand’s territory due to actions by the Cambodian side, and calls upon the Cambodian side to take responsibility for this incident, which constitutes a serious threat to peace and stability in the border region between the two countries.
The Royal Thai Army affirms its commitment to utilizing all available mechanisms to take appropriate action within the proper framework, ensuring the safety of military personnel and Thai citizens while preventing further incidents of this nature”, Royal Thai Army Public Relations Center, Army Spokesperson Team stated this on 23 July 2025.
Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, the Cambodia Ministry of National Defense Spokesperson while addressing the press and the public on Saturday, said that:
“1. Thailand keeps expanding its military, including infantry forces, heavy weaponry, and fighter jets. Thai forces launched indiscriminate attacks that targeted no specific objectives and destroyed civilian infrastructure, including schools, villages, markets, health facilities, gas stations, temples, and World Heritage sites. These attacks have also harmed innocent civilians—children, women, and the elderly—who are currently at serious risk. This constitutes a violation of international law and the Geneva Conventions.
2. Please take note that Thai troops, employing F-16 fighter jets, rained bombs on civilian settlements, killing and injuring several civilians. In Oddar Meanchey province, five Cambodian soldiers and eight civilians were killed, and 21 Cambodian soldiers and 50 civilians were injured, while around 35,000 people in four provinces—Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Pursat, and Banteay Meanchey—were forced to leave their homes as a result of these attacks.
3. The Thai side continues to escalate by aggressively deploying troops to attack multiple Cambodian targets, showing no signs of de-escalation. At the same time, Thailand has declared martial law in Trat and Chanthaburi provinces and has begun expanding its military forces and armaments under the Operation Chakrabongse Bhuvanath plan.
4. Thailand has deliberately launched unprovoked attacks against Cambodia and is increasingly violating Cambodian sovereignty, while continuing to make exaggerated and unfounded accusations against Cambodia. This clearly reveals a premeditated plan to invade Cambodia.
5. The Ministry of National Defense of Cambodia calls on the international community—including the United Nations Security Council, ASEAN, international partners, and diplomatic missions—to strongly condemn the brazen and reckless aggression against Cambodia.
6. We call on the international community to take urgent measures to prevent further troop deployments aimed at attacking Cambodia, to ensure that Thailand respects the full territorial integrity of Cambodia, and to hold Thailand accountable for its violations of the United Nations Charter, the Geneva Conventions, and the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
7. Cambodia remains firmly committed to resolving the issue peacefully in accordance with international law while reserving our right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter and to defend our people, sovereignty, and territorial integrity to the fullest extent against Thailand’s aggression and violent acts.
8. Thailand’s incursions have expanded to other provinces of Cambodia, including five artillery attacks in Thma Da commune, Veal Veng district, Pursat province. In the 4th zone, Thailand also launched attacks in 3 locations: Veal Intri, Tathav, and Choam Te, on the morning of July 26.
9. Cambodia once again condemns the aggression and premeditated provocations by Thailand. Cambodia reaffirms our commitment to maintaining peace and security but nevertheless reserves the right to defend our sovereignty as a victim of the Thais’s violations. We assert our principle of targeting only military objectives on the Thai side, ensuring that civilians remain unharmed.
10. Thus far, the Cambodian army has remained resolute and unwavering in its defense of Cambodia’s territorial integrity, standing firm against the threats and coercion from Thailand”, the Cambodia National Defense stated.
The Cambodia Ministry of Information also in a statement on Saturday, stated that; “Thailand is using information manipulation warfare strategies to fabricate pretexts for its armed aggression of Cambodian territory, while falsely portraying itself as the victim.
We would like to inform our fellow Cambodian citizens that the Thai media has colluded with the Thai government and military to fabricate and disseminate fake news aimed at demonizing Cambodia, in order to create a pretext for their own armed invasion and violation of Cambodia’s territorial integrity.
Both the Thai government, its military, and media outlets have employed deceptive tactics to provoke incidents according to their premeditated invasion plans. The Thai military’s armed incursion was carefully planned and prepared long in advance. The blueprint of Thailand’s military aggression is clear, beginning with a pre-emptive attack on Cambodian forces, followed by shamelessly placing all blame on Cambodia without any sense of remorse or accountability.
Cambodia tells the truth — Thailand lies to the world. Cambodia has no interest in invading Thailand”.
Euro News reported that “as the conflict between the two countries enters its third day, at least 30 people have been killed and thousands forced to flee their homes.
Cambodia’s UN Ambassador, Chhea Keo called for an “immediate, unconditional” ceasefire with Thailand on Friday after the dispute between the two countries entered its third day.
The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting behind closed doors late Friday in New York, with all 15 members calling on the parties to de-escalate, show restraint and resolve the dispute peacefully.
“We also call for the peaceful solution to the dispute,” said Chhea Keo.
He responded to accusations that Cambodia attacked Thailand, asking how a small country with no air force could attack a much larger country with an army three times its size, stressing, “We do not do that.”
Thailand’s UN ambassador left the meeting without stopping to talk to reporters. But Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said Friday that Cambodia may be guilty of war crimes due to the deaths of civilians and damage caused to a hospital. He said Thailand had exercised the “utmost restraint and patience in the face of provocations and aggression” from Cambodia”.
Meanwhile, the Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement on Saturday evening stated that; “Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that, a few moments ago, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had a conversation with President Trump who requested that Thailand and Cambodia agree to a ceasefire immediately.
Acting Prime Minister thanked President Trump for his concern and expressed that Thailand agrees in principle to have a ceasefire in place. However, Thailand would like to see sincere intention from the Cambodian side. Acting Prime Minister thus requested President Trump to convey to the Cambodian side that Thailand wants to convene a bilateral dialogue as soon as possible to bring forth measures and procedures for the ceasefire and the eventual peaceful resolution of the conflict”.
It would be recalled that on June 26, 2025, the Kingdom of Cambodia had stated in its government website that; “Cambodian Prime Minister, Hun Manet raised concerns about the lack of clarity and inconsistency between the Thai prime minister and the Thai military regarding the closure and reopening of border checkpoints with Cambodia.
Samdech Thipadei noted that at times the border was completely closed, only to be reopened in certain areas. However, the reopened checkpoints permitted only limited movement, barring general public crossing, while Thailand shifted the blame to Cambodia for initiating the closure.
The premier spoke on Thursday (June 26) at the graduation ceremony at the Police Academy of Cambodia in Kandal Province.
The premier explained that on 24 June 2025, the Thai prime minister publicly announced a full border closure with Cambodia, citing the United Nations reports alleging that Cambodia was a hub for online criminal activity. Exceptions were made only for students and critically ill patients. Thai military forces began implementing the closure on that same day.
Yet, later in the evening, the spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs came forward stating that Thailand had not officially closed its borders. Then, on the morning of 25 June, Thai military personnel reopened some border gates for the purpose of taking photos, though the restrictions on cross-border travel remained in effect.
“Cambodia does not play such covert games. If we act, we take responsibility. We already made our stance clear. If you (Thailand) close the border, we will close it indefinitely until you officially reopen it. If we continue to react to your inconsistent moves, then we will never know when this will end,” the premier underscored.
Samdech Thipadei reaffirmed that he is currently awaiting individuals in Thailand who will hold genuine power and adopt a clear and consistent stance, with whom Cambodia can reliably engage in good faith, in order to seek joint solutions that benefit both nations and their peoples.”
A Malaysia based News media, The Star, reported that “Malaysia will continue engaging Cambodia and Thailand to achieve a ceasefire in the ongoing border clashes, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, (the Prime Minister of Malaysia).
The Prime Minister said that although both leaders had initially agreed to a ceasefire, fighting still persisted along the disputed border.
Anwar said he has told Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to contact his Thai and Cambodian counterparts for talks. “Maybe, I will directly contact them to at least stop the shooting and continue the negotiations,” said Anwar. Anwar said that during his initial call to the two leaders, they had thanked him for facilitating talks.
“Even though they agreed to it, there is still shooting at the border,” added Anwar. Anwar, on Friday (July 25), stated that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to a ceasefire, but requested some time as their troops were already stationed at the border and needed time to withdraw.
Both countries have accused each other of starting the military clashes and have downgraded their diplomatic relations since Wednesday (July 23).
Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have been escalating since May 28, following a deadly incident in the Preah Vihear area that claimed the life of a Cambodian soldier.
The two countries have been at odds for decades over various under marketed points along their 817km-long border”.
United States, US President, Donald Trump who is currently in Scotland, said while at a golf course on Saturday that he “Just spoke to the Prime Minister of Cambodia, relative to stopping the War with Thailand. I am calling the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, right now, to likewise request a Ceasefire, and EnD to the War, which is currently raging.
We happen to be, by coincidence, currently dealing on Trade with both Countries, but do not want to make any Deal, with either Country, if they are fighting — And I have told them so! The call with Thailand is being made momentarily. The call with Cambodia has ended, but expect to call back regarding War stoppage and Ceasefire based on what Thailand has to say. I am trying to simplify a complex situation! Many people are being killed in this War, but it very much reminds me of the Conflict between Pakistan and India, which was brought to a successful halt.”
Prime Minister of Thailand, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is currently on suspension in a press statement, said that: “I would like to emphasize and reaffirm the government’s statement that Cambodia’s actions constitute a severe war crime, in violation of peaceful principles under the framework of international law and the humanitarian principles that Thailand has consistently upheld.
The escalation of violence is something the government does not desire and has made every effort to prevent. However, when the opposing side initiated firing first, it became necessary to respond decisively and appropriately.
Although I am unable to perform my duties in person, I have been closely monitoring the situation and receiving reports, doing everything within my capacity. I wish to send my encouragement and concern to all officials and fellow citizens along the border. I believe that every mechanism of the government is fully prepared to support the work of security forces and care for our fellow citizens to the fullest extent. This includes on-site visits by the Cabinet and the establishment of compensation guidelines for those who have lost their lives or been injured.
At the same time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has utilized every channel of communication with the international community to clarify the facts regarding the cause of the conflict, which stems from the Thai government’s efforts to crack down on call center crimes, dismantling a network of immense financial interests linked to influential groups in Cambodia. This is to protect Thai citizens and those of many other countries affected by this operation. I believe this may be the primary reason for Cambodia’s anger, or perhaps not.
Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has presented evidence of Cambodia’s unjust actions, including violations of treaties, international law, human rights principles, and severe inhumanity, such as the illicit planting of landmines, initiating attacks, and targeting civilian sites such as hospitals and homes, resulting in numerous Thai casualties and injuries. These points have been raised on international platforms as well.
In this situation, Thai people must unite and stand together as one. We will not yield to such despicable tactics, and nothing can overcome the unity of the Thai people. Regarding proposals from various countries to end the violence, I believe the government is ready to listen, but the key lies in the attitude and sincerity, which, so far, we have not seen from Cambodia in this matter.
On behalf of the Ministry of Culture, I express my boundless gratitude for the gracious compassion of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen, who have shown concern for the military personnel and citizens in the Thai-Cambodia border provinces. Their Majesties have graciously taken all those who lost their lives or were injured in the unrest in these areas under their royal patronage, bringing immense joy and gratitude to the families of the deceased and injured, as well as to Thai subjects across the country.
Under the mission of the Ministry of Culture, I have urgently ordered two key tasks:
1) Ceremonial funerals granted by royal decree: As the agency responsible for conducting funerals granted by royal decree, we will carry out the tasks in accordance with the royal instructions from the Bureau of the Royal Household with utmost dignity and adherence to traditional royal customs.
2) Other assigned support missions from the provinces, such as caring for the injured, providing essential supplies and necessities, collaborating with relevant agencies to provide psychological support for those affected, and deploying personnel to assess damages in accordance with the Ministry’s responsibilities, such as historical sites in the area, to evaluate damage and secure funding for restoration and repairs moving forward.
First and foremost, I would like to reiterate Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham’s yesterday statement that Cambodia act of aggression constitutes a grave war crime that violates the principles of peaceful resolution under international law and humanitarian principles, which Thailand has always upheld.
However, the government does not condone violence and has made every effort to avoid it. But when the Cambodian side initiates the use of arms, it is necessary for us to response in an appropriate manner”.
Prime Minister of Cambodia, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet says while clarifying Cambodia’s stance on the ceasefire proposed by Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Rotating Chair of ASEAN that “Given some unclear reporting in various international news outlets regarding Cambodia’s position on the ceasefire proposed by His Excellency, Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and the rotating ASEAN Chair, I am obliged to clarify as follows:
Yesterday evening, on 24 July 2025, His Excellency Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and the rotating ASEAN Chair, requested a phone conversation with me to discuss the fighting between the Cambodian and Thai militaries along the border.
He expressed his concern over the conflict and his desire for an immediate ceasefire to pave way for a resolution between the two sides.
I made it clear to His Excellency Anwar Ibrahim that Cambodia agreed with his proposal for a ceasefire because Cambodia did not initiate this fighting.
An initial response I received from His Excellency Anwar Ibrahim after he spoke with His Excellency Phumtham Wechayachai, acting Prime Minister of Thailand, was that the Thai side had agreed to his proposal for a ceasefire, setting 12:00am on 24 July 2025 as the time for both sides to cease the fighting.
However, it is regrettable that just over an hour later, the Thai side informed that they had reversed their position from agreeing to the ceasefire at 12:00am on 24 July 2025, to not agreeing and waiting for a later date. His Excellency Anwar Ibrahim is well aware of this situation.
Therefore, the key to resolving the current armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is the genuine willingness of the Thai side to accept a ceasefire, which is the first step towards finding further solutions between the two countries.”
“Even though there is currently fighting between the Cambodian and Thai armies at the border, I appeal to all Cambodian citizens to maintain their morality and dignity, and to avoid discrimination or any actions that could affect the Royal Thai Embassy in Cambodia, Thai companies, and Thai citizens living in Cambodia.
For Cambodian citizens who are living, working, or studying in Thailand and may be facing pressure from discrimination and wish to return to Cambodia, please come back to our country.
If you need assistance, please contact the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Bangkok or the Consulate-General of Cambodia in Sa Kaeo Province in Thailand.”
“Sincere thanks to our Cambodian compatriots for coming together in large numbers for the blood donation, responding to the heartfelt appeal of H.E. Dr. Pich Chanmony on the evening of July 24th.
As a result of the blood donation drive, we received 2,117 units of blood. In addition, 9,336 individuals registered via QR code to be able to donate later.
These results demonstrate the humanitarian spirit and solidarity of the Cambodian people, showing strong support for the potential needs of our heroes on the front lines and displaced people in Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces.”