Phnom penh: The Kingdom of Cambodia has issued an open letter to the international community, claiming it has been the target of deliberate military aggression by the Thai armed forces along its western border since December 7, 2025. The letter describes the conflict as a planned war initiated by Thailand, involving simultaneous deployment of land, air, and naval forces, with attacks impacting both military and civilian areas, including significant cultural and historical sites.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Cambodia asserts its position as a non-aggressor, emphasizing its limited military capacity and longstanding commitment to peaceful resolution of border disputes. Cambodia highlights its history of restraint and efforts toward peacebuilding, in contrast to the military actions taken by Thailand. The letter references Cambodia's reliance on legally established border agreements, such as the Franco-Siamese Treaties and a Memorandum of Understanding from 2000, while accusing Thailand of utilizing unilateral maps for territorial claims.
The letter further emphasizes Cambodia's preference for legal avenues over military action, citing past rulings by the International Court of Justice that affirmed Cambodian sovereignty in disputed areas. It underscores Cambodia's prioritization of peace and stability, recalling the nation's experiences with war and genocide, and its subsequent dedication to socio-economic development, recognized internationally through various peace awards.
Moreover, the letter accuses Thailand of publicly declaring and executing extensive military operations along the border, with incursions deep into Cambodian territory. The alleged use of advanced military equipment and attacks on civilians and cultural sites are characterized as violations of international law and an affront to Cambodia's sovereignty.
The Cambodian government calls on the international community to recognize and respond to the aggression, stressing the importance of upholding international law to maintain the credibility of the global order based on the rule of law. The letter warns that inaction could embolden further violations and undermine efforts toward peaceful conflict resolution.