Thai Army rejects Hun Manet’s claims, says Thailand acting within international law

2026-02-19 - 10:33

BANGKOK — The Royal Thai Army on Thursday rejected remarks by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, accusing him of distorting facts over the border situation and insisting Thailand is acting to defend its sovereignty in line with international law. Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree was responding to an interview Hun Manet gave to Reuters on 17 February, concerning the Thai military and a ceasefire agreement under a Joint Statement signed by both sides at the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on 27 December 2025. Hun Manet was quoted as saying the Thai army was occupying Cambodian territory and had installed shipping containers and barbed wire, preventing around 80,000 displaced people from returning home. Winthai said the area in question is recognized as Thai territory. He said Thailand had previously allowed Cambodian refugees fleeing conflict to take shelter on its side of the border. After fighting ended, however, some Cambodian civilians and troops did not return. He alleged that communities later expanded into Thai sovereign territory despite repeated protests lodged by Thailand through bilateral mechanisms. He said the group should not be described as “displaced persons,” but rather individuals unlawfully encroaching on Thai territory, affecting Thai citizens’ access to the area. Regarding claims of territorial occupation and the installation of containers and barbed wire, the army said Thailand has strictly adhered to the ceasefire terms in the Joint Statement, particularly a provision requiring both sides to maintain their existing troop positions without further reinforcement. Winthai said Thai forces operated in the area to repel attacks and protect soldiers and civilians, describing the actions as self-defense under international law, not a violation of any country’s sovereignty. Maintaining troop positions after the ceasefire is legitimate under the agreement signed by both governments, he added. He said the placement of containers and barbed wire in certain areas is a temporary security measure aimed at reducing the risk of confrontation and ensuring safety for both troops and civilians. He also accused Cambodia of previously using civilians to provoke tensions in the area. On Cambodia’s call for the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) to resume efforts to resolve border disputes, Winthai said Thailand, through the Foreign Ministry, has expressed readiness to engage in all bilateral mechanisms once conditions are suitable. Those conditions include de-escalation of military tensions, clearance of landmines along the border and the readiness of Thailand’s new government, which is currently being formed. The army reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dialogue while remaining prepared for all contingencies to safeguard national sovereignty and public safety. It urged Cambodia to respect and strictly adhere to the Joint Statement to ensure a sustainable resolution and lasting stability along the border.