Thailand’s continued military aggression against Cambodia is no longer a border dispute — it is a deliberate violation of international law and a calculated act of intimidation against a peaceful neighbour. Despite repeated ceasefire agreements and appeals from the international community, Bangkok has chosen the path of escalation, not peace. The world must now ask: Why does Thailand refuse to end its military aggression, and what justification can it possibly claim?
The answer is clear. Thailand’s actions are not defensive — they are expansionist. By launching attacks and occupying positions inside Cambodian territory, Thailand is attempting to rewrite borders by force, in direct defiance of international treaties and the historic verdicts of the International Court of Justice. No credible evidence supports its claims; its aggression serves only the ambition of a government desperate to distract from domestic instability and to rally public sentiment through manufactured conflict.
Even more alarming is Thailand’s blatant disregard for the rules of war. Cambodian soldiers captured after the ceasefire remain illegally detained, in violation of the Geneva Conventions and the fundamental principles of humanity. This act alone demonstrates that Thailand is not a partner for peace, but a serial violator of international norms and ASEAN’s Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
Cambodia has chosen restraint. We have welcomed international observers, honoured ceasefires, and pursued dialogue in good faith. Yet our goodwill has been met with artillery, airstrikes and provocation. This asymmetric posture — one nation calling for peace while another insists on war — cannot be allowed to continue.
The time for silence is over. ASEAN, the UN and the wider international community must move beyond statements to action. Diplomatic and political pressure, along with targeted economic measures, must be considered to compel Thailand to cease its aggression, release the illegally detained Cambodian soldiers and return to the path of law and peace.
Cambodia’s message is clear: we will defend our sovereignty, we will uphold international law and we will not allow Thailand’s reckless ambition to destabilise our region. Peace can prevail — but only if the world refuses to tolerate Thailand’s serial violations any longer.
Roth Santepheap is a geopolitical analyst based in Phnom Penh. The views and opinions expressed are his own.
