New york city: Cambodia has been accused of launching an attack on Thailand, violating Thai sovereignty, according to Mr. Maris Sengiampong, Thailand's Minister of Foreign Affairs. During a recent United Nations meeting, he detailed the incidents that occurred along the Thai-Cambodian border, which he argues do not pose a threat to international peace but require urgent peaceful negotiations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Maris reported that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has urged both Thailand and Cambodia to exercise restraint and peacefully resolve their border conflict. He emphasized that Cambodia initiated the aggression, targeting civilian areas, including hospitals and gas stations, resulting in civilian casualties. Mr. Maris expressed concern over Cambodia's actions, which he claims violate international law and human dignity, leading Thailand to downgrade diplomatic relations with Cambodia.
Mr. Maris also highlighted evidence of new Cambodian mines found on Thai territory, which have caused severe injuries to Thai soldiers. He underscored Thailand's adherence to peaceful measures in line with the UN Charter, despite repeated violations by Cambodia. During his visit to the United Nations Headquarters, Mr. Maris met with various international representatives to explain Thailand's stance and urge Cambodia to halt its aggressive actions and engage in sincere negotiations.
Additionally, Mr. Maris mentioned Cambodia's complaint to the UNSC President, which Thailand has countered with evidence of Cambodia's military aggression. The UNSC held a closed meeting, urging both nations to negotiate peacefully and acknowledging ASEAN's potential role in conflict resolution. Mr. Maris expressed appreciation for Malaysia's offer to mediate but insisted that Cambodia must first demonstrate sincerity.
In response to accusations by Cambodia's Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts regarding damage to the Preah Vihear temple, Mr. Maris refuted the claims as baseless. He reiterated Thailand's commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and within international legal frameworks.
Mr. Maris confirmed that Thailand would consider submitting the issue of Cambodia's human rights violations to the Geneva Conventions and other international bodies. He also mentioned ongoing deliberations on whether to bring the case to the International Criminal Court for war crimes. Furthermore, Thailand has already raised concerns about Cambodia's use of landmines under the Ottawa Convention.
Mr. Nikorndej Plangoon, spokesperson for Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, condemned Cambodia's attacks on civilian infrastructure as violations of the Geneva Conventions, highlighting the protection of medical units and civilian hospitals. Thailand plans to formally condemn these actions through the International Committee of the Red Cross and other international channels.