Cambodian soldiers expelled Thai troops from Cambodian territory on the morning of July 4, in the area of Phnom Khmoch “Ghost Mountain”. It appeared that the aggressive posturing of the Thai soldiers was intended to provoke a violent reaction. - Photo: Facebook
PHNOM PENH: On Friday (July 4) morning, at the Ghost Mountain frontline, black-clad Thai soldiers once again carried out provocative manoeuvres against the Cambodian forces stationed along the border.
This was not an isolated incident. It is part of a long-standing pattern of aggression and encroachment that flagrantly violates Cambodia’s sovereignty and breaches the principles of international law.
According to assessments by the Cambodian military, Thai troops deliberately advanced toward Cambodian territory, patrolling along previously disputed routes.
Their actions were clearly intended to incite frustration and provoke a reaction — hoping that the brave and disciplined Cambodian soldiers might respond emotionally and ignite a wider confrontation.
Fortunately, Cambodia’s defenders exercised restraint and professionalism, refusing to fall into the trap.
This behaviour by the Thai military is neither new nor accidental.
Time and again, Thai forces have crossed into Cambodian land without permission, reinforced their presence near historic Khmer temples, and displayed hostile posturing that escalates tensions instead of promoting peace.
These actions go far beyond routine security — they reflect a dangerous strategy to challenge Cambodia’s territorial integrity and distort historical truth for political gain.
The Royal Government of Cambodia and its armed forces have made their position clear: Every inch of Cambodian territory will be protected.
Cambodia does not seek conflict, but it will not stand idle in the face of repeated violations.
Our commitment to diplomacy, dialogue and respect for international norms remains strong.
But no sovereign state should be expected to endure endless provocations on its own soil.
The actions of the Thai military are in direct violation of international law, including the UN Charter and the Asean Charter — both of which prohibit the use or threat of force against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of any member state.
Such provocations not only endanger peace — they also erode regional trust and cooperation.
Cambodia now calls upon the international community, Asean member states and all peace-loving nations to pay close attention.
The continuous provocations by Thai forces are a threat to regional stability, a blatant disregard for legal norms and an affront to Cambodia’s sovereign rights. Silence in the face of these actions would be complicity.
Let this be clear to all: Cambodia does not wish for conflict, but we will never permit our borders to be violated or redrawn through force.
We stand united — defending our land, our heritage and the pride of the Khmer nation. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
[Roth Santepheap is a Phnom Penh-based geopolitical analyst. The views and opinions expressed are his own.]
