The current situation is a tragic one that continues to intensify and expand on the primary basis that Thailand is seeking to bully Cambodia into accepting Thailand’s illegitimate claims over Cambodian territory — claims that are contrary to international views on the matter including relevant International Court of Justice rulings.
It is positive news that US President Trump has intervened and purportedly convinced Thailand to cease hostilities; however, it is also notable that after his call with with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the Tahi leader told a news conference that a ceasefire would only come about if “Cambodia will cease fire, withdraw its troops, remove all landmines it has planted”.
It seems striking that while Thai troops were maneuvering forces within sovereign Cambodian territory, and attacking Cambodian villages and cultural sites, Thai forces seemed to miraculously avoid any of the landmines that it claims are the source of Thai casualties. It is also striking that Thailand continues to raise conditions for peace while its military forces maneuver in, fires upon, and attacks Cambodia.
The bottom line is this: The Thai military is continuing to test the willingness and resolve of the US, ASEAN and the world’s efforts at peace. An army that imposes conditions for peace while attacking and invading another country is not legitimately interested in peace. Thailand’s aggressive actions against Cambodia are inconsistent with a mature state that respects international law. This unjustified aggression against a fellow ASEAN member must be stopped.
Youk Chhang is director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-Cam). The views and opinions expressed are his own.
