Cambodia outlines five reasons accusing Thailand of aggression in border conflict

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 24, 2025) — Cambodia’s Information Minister Neth Pheaktra on Wednesday set out what he described as five key reasons why Cambodia should be seen as the victim, not the aggressor, in its escalating border conflict with Thailand.

Pheaktra said the points were intended to counter doubts in international opinion and clarify Cambodia’s position.

First, he argued that Cambodia, as a smaller country in territory, economy and military capacity, lacked both the ability and intention to wage war against Thailand, which he described as significantly stronger.

He said Cambodia had consistently exercised restraint, citing its acceptance of a ceasefire in July and a Joint Statement on Peace signed in October.

Second, he said Cambodia recognized borders based on internationally accepted treaties and maps, including the Franco-Siamese agreements of 1904 and 1907 and a 2000 memorandum of understanding. He accused Thailand of relying on a unilateral map.

Third, he pointed to Cambodia’s reliance on international legal mechanisms, citing International Court of Justice rulings in 1962 and 2013 affirming Cambodian sovereignty over the Preah Vihear Temple.

Fourth, he said Cambodia’s modern history — including decades of war and the Khmer Rouge era — had made peace a national priority, reinforced by international recognition and awards.

Fifth, Pheaktra accused Thailand of openly declaring war and expanding military operations since Dec. 7, alleging deep incursions into Cambodian territory with heavy weaponry. The claims could not be independently verified.

Pheaktra said Cambodia’s actions were defensive and rejected Thailand’s assertion that its operations were in self-defense.