In a statement released on 29 Jul 2025, the Royal Thai Government has reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful means and restraint in addressing the ongoing border tensions with Cambodia, while also exercising its inherent right to self-defense.
The situation escalated after clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces began in mid-July, resulting in a significant deterioration of relations. The Foreign Ministry received reports that after a ceasefire agreement was signed on 28 Jul 2025, Cambodian troops continued to launch attacks on Thai military frontliners located well within the Thai border.
Thailand responded by exercising its right to self-defense in a proportionate manner, and has since sent letters of protest to Malaysia, the United States, China, and other relevant parties. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also facilitated a phone call between H.E. Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Acting Prime Minister, and H.E. Mr. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, to affirm that Thailand’s actions remain within its rights under international law.
In a bid to de-escalate tensions, Thailand attended a Special Meeting in Malaysia, convened by ASEAN Chair Malaysia, on 26 Jul 2025. The meeting aimed to address the current situation between Thailand and Cambodia, with Thailand’s main aims being to reiterate its policy position and utilize existing ASEAN mechanisms to help address the border situation peacefully.
During the meeting, Thailand received expressions of goodwill from China, and a discussion in person with H.E. Mr. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, who affirmed that both Thailand and Cambodia are close friends of China and encouraged a return to bilateral negotiations for both.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to emphasize Thailand’s commitment to peaceful means and self-defense, while also emphasizing its focus on bilateral mechanisms and established frameworks for resolving disputes. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire and improve communication between the two countries.
Thailand will continue to monitor the situation closely and act in proportion to developments on the ground. The diplomatic community is advised to follow the latest developments and updates from the Thailand-Cambodia border situation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region, while also upholding Thailand’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Key Developments:
- Thailand responds to ongoing border tensions with Cambodia by exercising self-defense rights
- Special Meeting held in Malaysia brings together ASEAN member states and other relevant parties to address the situation
- China expresses goodwill towards Thailand, encouraging a return to bilateral negotiations
- Thailand emphasizes commitment to peaceful means and self-defense while focusing on bilateral mechanisms and established frameworks for resolving disputes
Conclusion:
The ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia highlight the complexities of regional diplomacy. Thailand’s diplomatic efforts aim to balance its commitment to peace with its inherent right to self-defense, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these efforts will play out, but one thing is clear: Thailand’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are at stake.