Cambodian Defense Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Captured Soldiers in Meeting With ICRC

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.10, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to securing the safe return of 18 Royal Cambodian Armed Forces soldiers currently held by Thai military forces, following a high-level meeting with the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Lt. Gen. Rath Dararoth, secretary of state at the Ministry of National Defense, received Jurg Montani, head of the ICRC’s regional delegation, for a courtesy call and working discussions.  

Montani briefed Cambodian officials on the ICRC’s second visit to the detained soldiers, who were captured on July 29, 2025, after a ceasefire agreement had taken effect. He confirmed that all 18 soldiers are safe and in good health.

The ICRC also facilitated the exchange of family messages between the soldiers and their loved ones, in coordination with the Cambodian Red Cross. Montani emphasized that the contents of these messages remain strictly confidential, in accordance with the Geneva Conventions and international humanitarian law. No photographs of the detainees will be released.

“The confidentiality of these communications is paramount,” Montani said. “Even Cambodian Red Cross staff cannot access the contents. This is a matter of humanitarian protection.”

The Royal Government of Cambodia reiterated its position that it will continue to pursue all available diplomatic and legal mechanisms to ensure the swift and safe release of its personnel.

“The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces will never abandon any of our troops under any circumstances,” the ministry stated.

The meeting underscores Cambodia’s strategic and humanitarian response to the ongoing detention, amid heightened regional sensitivities and post-ceasefire monitoring efforts.