In a statement released on 2 Aug 2025, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected all allegations made by the Cambodian Human Rights Committee to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, denying claims of torture and abuse against Cambodian soldiers detained by Thai authorities.
The announcement was issued in response to distorted information presented in a letter from the Cambodian Human Rights Committee. According to Thailand's official account, both Thailand and Cambodia reached a mutual understanding during a meeting facilitated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia on 28 July 2025, which resulted in an immediate ceasefire taking effect from 24:00 hrs (local time) on that date.
However, the Thai government alleges that the Cambodian side breached this ceasefire agreement when its armed forces launched attacks against Thailand using small arms and hand grenades in the Phu Makua area, Sisaket Province. This breach occurred despite the earlier mutual understanding, leading to renewed hostilities that necessitated the detention of 20 Cambodian soldiers.
The Thai authorities maintained that the detention was undertaken in accordance with international humanitarian law and did not constitute a violation of either the ceasefire or international law. In fact, the injured soldier had sustained his wound during combat, and the Thai authorities provided medical examinations and initial treatment for both individuals, including one suffering from a mental health condition.
Thailand stands ready to work with the international community to verify the facts surrounding this incident. The country has invited representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to visit the detained soldiers in order to provide transparency and accountability.
The clarification comes as part of Thailand's efforts to ensure clarity on all allegations stated in the letter from the Cambodian Human Rights Committee. The Thai government remains committed to upholding international humanitarian law and protecting human rights, both its own citizens and those of other nations.
In a bid to promote regional stability and cooperation, Thailand continues to engage with neighboring countries, including Cambodia, through various diplomatic channels and initiatives.
The significance of this incident lies in the implications for regional security and the need for all parties involved to adhere to international norms and standards. As a key player in Southeast Asia, Thailand's foreign policy plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
With its 5S (Stability, Security, Sustainability, Sufficiency, and Sublimity) foreign affairs masterplan aiming to enhance regional cooperation and address pressing global challenges, Thailand remains committed to its international obligations and principles of good governance.