Japanese Defense Attaché Urges Release of 18 Cambodian Soldiers

By Cheang Channimol

PHNOM PENH — Japanese Defense Attaché Col. Hara Takasi has expressed hope for the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained by Thai forces, citing the recent ceasefire agreement between the two countries.

In an exclusive interview with Kampuchea Thmey last week, Hara said, “I hope the relationship between Cambodia and Thailand stabilizes as soon as possible. Therefore, the 18 detained soldiers will be freed and return to their families and friends waiting in Cambodia. Also, the living standards of the Cambodian people will be restored.”

Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn has taken steps to address the issue with key diplomatic partners, including visiting delegations and the special envoy for Japan-Mekong Cooperation.

The Cambodian Human Rights Committee, in coordination with regional and international human rights institutions, has raised concerns over the soldiers’ dignity and called for full implementation of human rights protections.

In New York, Cambodia’s mission formally raised the issue with the United Nations and ASEAN partners, advocating for repatriation and placing the dispute in international hands. In Geneva, the mission sought assistance from humanitarian and human rights bodies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, to monitor detention conditions and press for compliance with the Geneva Conventions.

Cambodia remains in close contact with the International Committee of the Red Cross, seeking humanitarian protection rather than political confrontation. The government prioritizes access to the detained soldiers, monitoring conditions, and facilitating the repatriation of prisoners of war. It also calls for the protection of civilians from forced transfer and militarization, and urges adherence to international law, including prohibitions on indiscriminate attacks and banned weapons.