Cambodian Senate Condemns Thai Border Shooting as ‘Act of Aggression’

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov.13,2025) — Cambodia’s Senate on Wednesday condemned what it called a “brutal attack” by Thai armed forces on Cambodian civilians near the border, describing the incident as a violation of international law and regional agreements.

The Senate said Thai troops opened fire on residents of Prey Chan village in Banteay Meanchey province on Nov. 12, killing one person and injuring three others. It called the shooting a “flagrant violation” of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, citing breaches of the U.N. Charter, the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.

The statement expressed disappointment that the violence occurred despite a Joint Declaration signed in Kuala Lumpur on Oct. 26, in which both countries pledged to pursue peaceful dialogue. It also referenced a prior agreement reached at the General Border Committee meeting in Koh Kong on Sept. 10, focused on joint humanitarian demining efforts.

The Senate accused Thailand of undermining trust and “fabricating false accusations,” including claims related to landmines and cross-border threats. Cambodia “strongly rejects” those allegations, the statement said.

A Senate spokesperson criticized Thailand’s posture in the dispute, accusing Bangkok of “acting as both actor and referee” and of unilaterally assigning blame “without respect for equality or mutual respect.”

The Senate said Cambodia has exercised restraint since a ceasefire was declared on July 28, despite what it described as repeated provocations. It warned, however, that the country “will never compromise its sovereignty or dignity.”

The statement voiced full support for Prime Minister Hun Manet’s condemnation of the incident and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and regional stability.

While pledging continued adherence to dialogue and international law, the Senate warned that future attacks on Cambodian citizens “will be met with a firm and resolute defense of the nation’s sovereignty.”

There was no immediate response from the Thai government.