Cambodian Analysts Reject Thai Accusations of Border Provocations

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.16, 2025) — Cambodian political analysts and defense officials are pushing back against what they describe as a series of unfounded accusations from the Thai military, including claims that Cambodia has laid new landmines, mobilized troops and deployed drones near the shared border.

Kin Phea, Director-General of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, called the allegations “baseless,” asserting that Cambodia has consistently upheld the ceasefire agreement.

“In fact, it is the Thai side that has repeatedly breached it,” he said, citing arrests of Cambodian soldiers, unauthorized fence construction, and forced evictions of civilians.

Phea suggested the Thai military’s posture reflects deeper motives, including territorial ambitions, internal political deflection, and efforts to regain influence following years of military-led governance. “Thailand seems intent on misleading the international community by painting Cambodia as the aggressor,” he said.

Yong Pov, Secretary-General of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, echoed the concerns, describing Thailand’s claims as “pretexts for potential aggression.” He argued that the Thai military continues to provoke tensions, while the newly installed Thai government lacks the authority to resolve the dispute.

Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence, issued a formal rebuttal, rejecting the drone allegations and warning that such claims undermine trust and escalate tensions.

She urged Thailand to honor existing agreements, including the ceasefire reaffirmed during the General Border Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 7.

As tensions persist, Cambodian officials are calling for restraint and renewed commitment to peaceful dialogue, warning that continued provocations could jeopardize regional stability and diplomatic progress.