Thailand Blames Cambodia for Border Escalation
BANGKOK, Dec 9 (TNA) - Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) briefed ambassadors from 58 nations, asserting that Cambodia was the aggressor in the border conflict and defending Thailand's military response, including air strikes, as necessary self-defense.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow presented five key points, arguing that Cambodia violated the recent ceasefire agreement and used "same old tactics" of provocation and denial.
The MFA justified the use of air power by citing unfavorable, mine-filled terrain that precluded other options, emphasizing that the actions were in strict accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter and principles of necessity and proportionality.
The conflict has resulted in one Thai soldier killed, eight injured, and forced the evacuation of approximately 400,000 civilians across four border provinces.
Thailand condemned Cambodia for escalating the conflict and spreading "false and distorted information."
Following the briefing, the MFA sent a protest letter to Cambodia and also circulated letters explaining the situation to ASEAN member states and the UN Secretary-General and the President of the UN Security Council.
