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- Thai Acting PM expresses confidence amid intensified clashesThai Acting PM expresses confidence amid intensified clasheseng editor 3
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that he spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump following the ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, expressing his confidence that the situation will unfold positively. However, clashes intensified and explosions continued before midnight, when the ceasefire officially took effect.
Upon this return from Malaysia, the Acting PM told the media that both Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a ceasefire. In addition, he also revealed that he had a phone conversation with the US president, who called to admire Thailand’s courageous role in reaching the agreement and maintaining peace for both countries.
Phumtham said he expressed his gratitude to the U.S. President for facilitating a peaceful resolution. Due to the smooth discussion, he believed that the ceasefire agreement would not only strengthen regional peace but also pave the way for favourable trade negotiations with the US.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump posted a message after his phone conversation with the Thai Acting PM, showing his delight that both countries have reached the ceasefire agreement due to his involvement, and he also said that he will proceed with trade negotiations.
When asked about the continuing attack, Phumtham said he believed the attack would end at midnight, as agreed, given the positive atmosphere of the talks and strong international support. He also added that if Cambodia fails to comply with the agreement, the international community will take the Thai side.
In terms of international observers, he said Thailand was praised for its generosity and commitment to promoting peace and cooperation. Moreover, Thailand has been recognized for its commitment to turning its words into actions.
The Acting PM strongly believed that the situation would unfold positively.
According to a report from the Royal Thai Government, Phumtham reaffirmed that the talks did not address the disputed 1:200,000 map nor the opening or closing of border crossings.
Following a meeting on 28 July mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current ASEAN Chair, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire starting from midnight.
Military commanders from both countries will also meet at 7.00 on Tuesday (29 July). Both countries will also convene a meeting of the General Border Committee on 4 August. The ceasefire came after five days of battle along the Thai-Cambodian borders, which resulted in civilian casualties on both sides.
Since the clashes erupted on 24 July, 14 Thai civilians were killed, and at least 190,000 people in Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Buriram, and Si Saket provinces have been displaced.
However, after both parties agreed on a ceasefire, it was reported that the artillery exchanges intensified, particularly at the Ta Kwai Temple. The death toll among Thai military personnel has risen to 11, following the deaths of two more soldiers in the clashes on Monday (28 July). Meanwhile, the ongoing explosions were reported in the disputed area.
28 July 28 202511488 at http://prachataienglish.com - Thai and Cambodian leaders to hold talks in MalaysiaThai and Cambodian leaders to hold talks in Malaysiaeng editor 1
A meeting between Thai and Cambodian delegations to discuss an end to the ongoing border clashes will take place on Monday (28 July) in Malaysia, said Jirayu Huangsap, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister.
The meeting came at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current ASEAN Chair.
Following news reports from international media that Thai and Cambodian leaders were invited to Malaysia to discuss the conflict, Jirayu confirmed that the Thai government has accepted the invitation. The meeting
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Saniampongsa, Deputy Defence Minister Gen Natthapon Nakpanich, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister Prommin Lertsuridej, and Jirayu as a member of the Ad Hoc Centre for Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation will be travelling to Malaysia to attend the meeting, which will take place at 15.00 at the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office.
Jirayu also said that the Thai government has been informed that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will attend the meeting himself.
He added that the discussions will be about how to end the conflict, and that the Thai government will protect the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Clashes at the Thai-Cambodian border, which began last Thursday (24 July) have continued over the weekend and resulted in civilian casualties on both sides.
As of Sunday (27 July), according to the Ad Hoc Centre for Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, 14 Thai civilians have been killed and 37 injured. Over 130,000 people have been evacuated from districts near the border in 7 provinces. 8 military personnel were killed and 103 injured.
The US Embassy in Thailand said on Sunday (27 July) that, according to State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken to Maris to urge the Thai government to deescalate tensions immediately and agree to a ceasefire with Cambodia over the ongoing border dispute. Rubio reiterated that US President Donald Trump's desire for peace and the importance of an immediate ceasefire, and that the US is prepared to facilitate future discussions in order to ensure peace and stability between Thailand and Cambodia.
27 July 27 202511487 at http://prachataienglish.com - Thailand-Cambodia border clashes enter second dayThailand-Cambodia border clashes enter second dayeng editor 3
Thailand and Cambodia have entered into a second day of artillery exchanges, with casualties continuing to rise on both sides. The international community has called for a ceasefire, while the UN Security Council (UNSC) was scheduled to hold an urgent meeting behind closed doors on the border clashes on 25 July.
On Friday (25 July), the Royal Thai Army reported that clashes began at around 4:00 am at Chong Bok and Phu Makhuea in Ubon Ratchathani Province and in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province. The report said the Cambodian side fired continuous barrages of heavy artillery and BM-21 rockets. It was not until 8.00 am that the Thai side fired in response.
According to the latest report at 8 pm, 13 civilians were killed, 10 sustained serious injuries, 10 suffered moderate injuries, and 13 had minor injuries. In addition, at least 130,000 people in Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Buriram, and Si Saket provinces have been displaced due to the ongoing clashes.
Meanwhile, 6 Thai military personnel were killed, 7 sustained serious injuries, 5 suffered moderate injuries, and 3 had minor injuries.
It was also reported that BM-21 rocket strikes have caused damage to civilian residences at three sites in Ubon Ratchathani. However, there was no report of deaths or injuries from the incidents.
Medical personnel and patients in 11 hospitals in the attack radius were also evacuated, with four hospitals temporarily ceasing operations.
In the evening, it was reported that martial law has been declared in seven districts in Chanthaburi and one district in Trat province.
The escalation resulted from the Thai Acting Prime Minister’s recall of the country’s ambassador to Cambodia on Wednesday (23 July) following injuries to five more Thai military personnel by landmines along the Thai-Cambodian border.
Casualties in Cambodia
According to Cambodian media outlets, one Cambodian civilian was killed and five others were injured in Oddar Meanchey Province. Approximately 2,400 families have been evacuated from conflict zones in the province.
The evacuees include residents from 12 villages and three communes in Banteay Ampil district, located near the areas of armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai forces around Ta Muen Thom Temple, Ta Kwai Temple, and Thma Daun.
Oddar Meanchey provincial spokesperson Met Measpheakdey confirmed that 260 schools across the province have been closed due to the ongoing Thai incursion.
Hun Sen and Hun Manet must be responsible for the attack on Thai civilians, says Phumtham
Acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai said he met the Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, who he said wanted to find a solution to end the confrontation, and Thailand did not object, but Cambodia must first agree to a ceasefire, adding that Thailand repeatedly tried to engage in dialogue, but those efforts failed.
The Acting PM strongly condemned Hun Sen and asserted that Cambodian PM Hun Manet must be held responsible for attacking civilians, particularly the attack on a convenience store at a gas station and the Phanom Dong Rak Hospital.
He noted that dialogue could not happen if the Cambodian side continued attacks on Thailand, and it was clear that Cambodia intends to violate international law.
In his evening press briefing, Phumtham reiterated that despite Thailand's restraint in the face of Cambodia's provocation, Cambodia had consistently chosen to use force. Cambodian forces launched attacks on hospitals and civilian facilities more than 20 kilometres away from the border.
In addition, the Foreign Ministry coordinated with Thai commercial airlines to arrange special flights to bring Thai people home safely, and the government was providing full medical treatment for injured military personnel and compensation for families of those who were killed.
"I would like to reiterate that this incident is not a conflict between the people of the two countries, and this is not a declaration of war. It is rather clashes along the border to protect sovereignty and to properly respond to an invader," said Phumtham.
UNSC to hold an urgent meeting
After Hun Manet submitted an official request t the President of the UN Security Council, requesting him to convene an urgent meeting to address Thai aggression, the UNSC scheduled an emergency meeting for 25 July.
Meanwhile, Thailand has a letter to the UNSC insisting that Cambodia opened fire first, and that a large number of Thai civilians were killed or injured. The UNSC President was also asked to circulate Thailand's letter to UNSC members.
It was reported that Thailand will send Cherdchai Chaivaivid, Ambassador to the United Nations, to attend the meeting.
In a media briefing, Foreign Minister Spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura expressed confidence that the evidence from the Thai side was grounded and reaffirmed that Thailand was attacked first, adding that the country’s response was proportionate, aimed at defending its sovereignty and protecting its people.
International community raises concern over the escalating border clashes
Since the border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia erupted on 24 July, several embassies and international organisations have raised concerns. Several embassies in Bangkok issued warnings against travelling to Thailand and the disputed border.
“The United States is gravely concerned by reports of the escalating fighting along the Thailand-Cambodia border. We are particularly alarmed by reports of harm to innocent civilians. We express our deepest condolences on the loss of life. We strongly urge the immediate cessation of attacks, protection of civilians, and peaceful settlement of disputes,” said the Office of the Spokesperson of the US Department of State in a press statement on 25 July.
"We urge both parties to exercise utmost restraint and to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions. Malaysia wishes to underscore the importance of resolving the border dispute through dialogue and diplomacy in the spirit of ASEAN solidarity and good neighbourliness," said the Malaysian Foreign Minister.
Antonio Guterres also urged “both sides to exercise maximum restraint and address any issues through dialogue and in a spirit of good neighbourliness, to find a lasting solution to the dispute”.
ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights also urgently called on the governments of Thailand and Cambodia to choose restraint over retaliation and dialogue over destruction. In the face of escalating violence along the border, ASEAN must act with moral clarity to protect the lives and dignity of border communities, according to the APHR.
25 July 25 202511486 at http://prachataienglish.com - UNSC to hold an emergency meeting over Thai-Cambodian border clashesUNSC to hold an emergency meeting over Thai-Cambodian border clasheseng editor 1
The UN Security Council (UNSC) will hold an emergency meeting on the ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.
Both local and international news outlets reported that the closed-door session will take place at the UN Headquarters in New York at 15.00 local time, or 2.00 on Saturday (26 July) in Thailand.
Matichon Online reported that Cherdchai Chadvaivid, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, will represent Thailand during the session.
At press conference today (25 July) at the Ad Hoc Centre for the Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, Maratee Nalita Andamo, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Information Department, said that Thailand has sent a letter to the UNSC insisting that Cambodia opened fire first, and that a large number of Thai civilians have been killed or injured. The UNSC President has also been asked to circulate Thailand's letter to UNSC members.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet filed an official request with the President of the UN Security Council yesterday (24 July) for an urgent meeting to address the border clashes. Cambodia claimed that Thai forces “launched unprovoked, premeditated and deliberate attacks” on Cambodian positions, noting that Thailand made “baseless and unfounded allegations” against Cambodia over the first landmine explosion.
Hun Manet also emphasized that Cambodia had no option but to respond in self defence to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, as Acting Prime Minister, said today (24 July) that Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who is currently in New York, has met with the UNSC and explained the situation. He also instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to submit a letter to the UNSC.
As clashes continue for the second day, 14 Thai civilians have so far been killed, while 31 have been injured. Over 130,000 people have reportedly been evacuated.
Meanwhile, CamboJA News reported that 1 Cambodian civilian has been killed and 5 injured during an assault in Oddar Meanchey Province.
25 July 25 202511485 at http://prachataienglish.com - APHR: Thai-Cambodia Border Bloodshed Demands ASEAN's Immediate Diplomatic Intervention Towards PeaceAPHR: Thai-Cambodia Border Bloodshed Demands ASEAN's Immediate Diplomatic Intervention Towards PeaceAPHR: Thai-Cambodia Border Bloodshed Demands ASEAN's Immediate Diplomatic Intervention Towards Peaceeng editor 1
ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) urgently calls on the governments of Thailand and Cambodia to choose restraint over retaliation, dialogue over destruction. In the face of escalating violence along the border, ASEAN must act with moral clarity to protect the lives and dignity of border communities.
The Thailand–Cambodia border has long been marked by periodic tensions and unresolved territorial claims. But the conflict that erupted on 24 July has reached an unprecedented intensity as Thai F‑16 jets and heavy artillery exchanges have claimed at least nine civilian lives including an eight‑year‑old child and left fourteen more injured as homes, schools and medical facilities in Surin and Sisaket provinces were struck.
“Families who once navigated these borders for trade, education and kinship now confront the trauma of displacement, loss of essential services and the collapse of their livelihood sources. The human cost of this conflict extends beyond immediate casualties, it threatens to impair the social bonds that bind our region,” exclaimed Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR Chairperson and Member of the House of Representatives of Indonesia.
As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia must seize this critical moment to reverse conflict and secure diplomacy that will usher peace.
Charles Santiago, APHR Co-Chairperson and former Malaysian Member of Parliament said that, “ASEAN Chair, Malaysia PM Anwar Ibrahim possesses the stature to engage the respective governments in serious negotiation.” He added that, “his decisive intervention can transform entrenched hostility into a shared commitment to civilian protection first and foremost.”
APHR urges the ASEAN Chair to secure an immediate ceasefire, establish protected humanitarian corridors and relaunch direct talks between Thailand and Cambodia. After all, the ASEAN Charter enshrines the peaceful settlement of disputes and the protection of human rights as core tenets of regional cooperation. These values must now be tested and upheld in practice.
Furthermore, as Southeast Asian lawmakers representing the people, we demand that Malaysia’s chairmanship harness every diplomatic tool at its disposal, demonstrating that ASEAN’s first and foremost duty is to safeguard human lives above all else.
“As elected representatives of the people, we remind ASEAN that its first and foremost duty is not to power or prestige, but to human life,” said Wong Chen, APHR Board Member and Member of the Malaysian Parliament. “This is not a contest of arms, but a crossroads of conscience — one that will define ASEAN’s moral relevance for years to come.”25 July 25 202511484 at http://prachataienglish.com - Thailand-Cambodia border clashes: what we knowThailand-Cambodia border clashes: what we knoweng editor 1
The Thai Army reported a firefight on the morning of 24 July near Ta Muen Temple, with no reports of injuries or fatalities.
The Army posted on its Facebook page that units stationed near the temple said they heard the sound of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), which it believed to have come from Cambodia, hovering near the front of the temple, although the units could not see the UAV.
The Army claimed that 6 fully armed Cambodian soldiers, including one with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) then advanced towards the barbed wire fence near the Thai operating base.. Thai troops maintaining border surveillance shouted warnings to avoid escalating the situation, the Army said.
The Thai Army said that the Cambodian troops opened fire from around 200 metres east of the Thai operating base at Ta Muen temple. However, the Khmer Times reported Cambodian Ministry of Defence Spokesperson Mali Socheata as saying that the Thai military launched an assault on Cambodian forces, who returned fire in response to an “unprovoked incursion.”
Thai and Cambodian troops continued to clash along the border. The 2nd Army Region said that BM-21 rockets were fired at Prasat Don Tual in Si Saket and a village in Kap Choeng District, Surin Province, and that Cambodian troops advanced towards Ta Kwai temple in Surin.
The 2nd Army Region reported that at around 10.50, 6 F-16 fighter jets were deployed from Ubon Ratchathani and conducted an air strike against two Cambodian military targets without identifying these targets.
At 11.30, the 2nd Army Region posted a video clip showing a fire at the Seven-Eleven store at a petrol station in Kantharalak District Sisaket Province. It said that the damage was caused by a BM-21 rocket fired by Cambodia.
There were also reports of an artillery strike on Phanom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin. No casualties were reported.
Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, spokesperson for the Ad Hoc Centre for the Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, said at a press conference around 12.00 on 24 July that clashes occurred in at least 6 areas following the clash at Ta Muen temple. He also said that all border checkpoints along the Thai-Cambodian borders had been closed.
The Thai Army issued a statement at around 2 pm condemning Cambodia’s attack on Thai civilians, saying that Thailand stands ready to defend its sovereignty and citizens. According to the Army, 9 people had been killed across four provinces, including an 8-year-old boy killed after an artillery shell landed in a village in Kap Choeng District, and 14 had been injured. Of this number, 6 were killed at the petrol station in Kantharalak, where 10 others were injured.
Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemns attack
On 24 July, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued four key messages in its official statement in response to the recent Thailand-Cambodia situation.
The Thai government condemned Cambodia in the strongest terms for violations of Thailand’s sovereignty and international law, following the laying of anti-personnel landmines within Thai territory that caused injuries to Thai military personnel and for firing heavy artillery into the Thai military base.
The severity of the situation indicated that Cambodia apparently intended to act against Thailand, so the Thai Government had decided to downgrade diplomatic ties and recall its Ambassador to Cambodia, as well as requesting the Cambodian government to recall its Ambassador to Thailand.
The Thai government urged Cambodia to cease its repeated actions which constitute a severe violation of international law. Such actions fundamentally contradict the principles of good neighbourly relations and will further undermine Cambodia's reputation and credibility on the global stage.
The Thai government called on Cambodia to take responsibility for the incidents, cease attacks against civilian and military targets, and stop all actions that violate Thailand’s sovereignty. The Thai government is also prepared to intensify self-defence measures if Cambodia persists in its armed attacks.
Cambodia downgrades diplomatic ties with Thailand
The Khmer Times reported the Cambodian government’s decision to downgrade its diplomatic relations with Thailand “to the lowest level” in response to Thailand’s decision to reduce ties with Cambodia to the level of Second Chargé d’Affaires. All Cambodian diplomatic staff at the Embassy in Bangkok have been ordered to return home, while Thailand has been instructed to arrange the departure of its diplomatic personnel from Cambodia.
Thailand announced its decision to reduce ties with Cambodia on the evening of 23 July after five military personnel were injured by landmines along the Thai-Cambodian borders. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that Thailand was recalling its ambassador to Cambodia, and would expel Cambodia’s ambassador from Thailand.
The 2nd Army Region also announced the closure of four border crossings in Surin, Sisaket, Buriram and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, as well as the tourist attractions of Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai temples, effective from Thursday 24 July.
The Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh recommended that Thai nationals visiting or resident in Cambodia leave the country as soon as possible, and refrain from traveling to Cambodia unless absolutely necessary.
Cambodia urges UNSC intervention
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet filed an official request with the President of the UN Security Council, requesting it to convene an urgent meeting to address Thai aggression.
In its letter, Cambodia said that the Thai armed forces “launched unprovoked, premeditated and deliberate attacks” on Cambodian positions, noting that Thailand made “baseless and unfounded allegations” against Cambodia over the first landmine explosion.
Hun Manet also emphasized that Cambodia had no option but to respond in self defence to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa happens to be attending the 2025 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. It was reported that during a video meeting between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Transport, airline representatives, and other relevant agencies, Maris said that he met with high-level representatives at the Forum including the UN Secretary-General and the President of the UN Security Council for July.
Maris said that he clarified Thailand’s stance on Cambodia’s action and stressed that Thailand is committed to resolving the dispute through bilateral mechanisms. He said that Cambodia’s action, especially the attacks on civilian locations, violated Thailand’s sovereignty. The Thai government is prepared to consider escalating measures if military attacks continue.
Thai PM condemns Cambodia
Suspended Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra issued an official statement condemning Cambodia for its use of violence and acts of aggression along the Thai border, in which the Cambodian side initiated the use of arms and fired into Thai territory, which impacted both officials and innocent civilians.
“Thailand has made every effort to engage in diplomatic dialogue in order to avoid confrontation, prevent further escalation of the situation and avoid losses by exercising patience and restraint while remaining committed to peaceful means. We firmly believe that peace is the best path to resolving conflicts between nations,” said the PM.
Senate committee condemns attack
The Senate Standing Committee on Military and National Security Affairs issued a statement condemning Cambodia’s attacks as “beyond what the Thai people can tolerate or accept,” and that it was “dishonourable and cowardly” to use heavy weapons and anti-personnel landmines.
The Committee “denounce[s] the Cambodian leadership for its lack of conscience and shame in resorting to violence.” It expresses “deep concern” for the safety and wellbeing of Thai citizens living along the border and says that it “stands in unwavering solidarity with the brave Thai military personnel”.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives opened a secret session discussing the border conflict after 7 motions were filed by both government and opposition MPs.
People’s Party MP Rangsiman Rome proposed that the Acting Prime Minister and the House Speaker contact Malaysia, which currently holds the ASEAN chairmanship, to inform it of the situation. Since a hospital has been hit, Thailand should also file a complaint with the UN Security Council because it might be seen as a perpetrator if Cambodia filed a complaint first. He also said he believes Cambodia’s goal is to take Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) because Cambodian troops are stationed at historic sites, which could have consequences if Thailand attacks them.
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim called on Thai and Cambodian leaders to order their troops to stand down and pursue peace talks.
24 July 24 202511483 at http://prachataienglish.com - Thailand downgrades diplomatic ties with Cambodia over landmine disputeThailand downgrades diplomatic ties with Cambodia over landmine disputeeng editor 3
Tension between Thailand and Cambodia has reached breaking point after Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister announced the recall of the country’s ambassador to Cambodia following injuries to five more Thai military personnel by landmines along the Thai-Cambodian border.
On Thursday (24 July), a clash was reported between Thai and Cambodian troops in the disputed Ta Muen Thom temple. Both troops traded accusations over who initiated the confrontation. Meanwhile, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities.
Previously, Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced on Wednesday (23 July) that Thailand will downgrade diplomatic ties with Cambodia. The Thai ambassador to Cambodia will be recalled, while Thailand will also expel the Cambodian ambassador to Thailand.
The announcement followed a fresh landmine dispute where five Thai army personnel were injured by a landmine during a patrol on Wednesday (23 July) in the disputed Huai Bon area located in Ubon Ratchathani’s Nam Yuen District, resulting in one soldier, Sergeant Phichitchai Boonkorat, losing his right leg.
Meanwhile, four others experienced chest tightness and tinnitus due to blast concussion. They are now being treated at Nam Yuen Hospital.
This was the second landmine incident, which escalated tension between the two countries. Three Thai Army Personnel were injured last week when one of them stepped on a landmine along the undemarcated Thai-Cambodian border at Chong Bok pass. One of the personnel, Private Thanapat Huaiwan, sustained a serious injury to his left leg, which had to be amputated.
The Deputy Prime Minister also revealed that it has been verified that the anti-personnel landmines were newly laid, which constituted a violation of the Ottawa Treaty. On the same day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally lodged a protest with the Cambodian Embassy.
Tension has been brewing in the Chong Bok area since 28 May, after a clash between Thai and Cambodian soldiersstationed at the border. While Thailand insisted on pursuing bilateral negotiations through the existing Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism, Cambodia announced that it is taking the cases of the Emerald Triangle and of the Ta Muen Thom, Ta Muen Tot and Ta Kwai temples before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Thailand has repeatedly asserted that it has not accepted the ICJ’s jurisdiction since 1960.
In response to the incident that occurred on Wednesday, the Royal Thai Army issued an English-language statement condemning the Cambodian side for the incident involving the covert placement of landmines in the border area of Chong An Ma.
“The Royal Thai Army strongly condemns this inhumane act that violates international humanitarian principles and international agreements, occurring within the Kingdom of Thailand's territory due to actions by the Cambodian side, and calls upon the Cambodian side to take responsibility for this incident, which constitutes a serious threat to peace and stability in the border region between the two countries,” said the statement.
The 2nd Army Region also announced the closure of four border crossings in Surin, Sri Saket, and Buriram, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, as well as the tourist attractions of Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai temples. The order is effective from Thursday (24 July).
Meanwhile, the Cambodian Defence Ministry stated that Cambodia has repeatedly warned Thailand that the area in question still contained numerous unexploded landmines left over from past wars, urging Thailand to respect the agreement on patrol routes as outlined in the MoU 2000 between the two countries.
Rollercoaster relations
Diplomatic relations between the two countries in recent times have fluctuated. Their ties were severed on two occasions, in 1958 and 1961, due to the Preah Vihear Temple dispute.
In addition to these two incidents, Thailand and Cambodia also downgraded diplomatic ties following the arson attack on the Royal Thai embassy in 2003, which stemmed from media reports in Cambodia falsely alleging that Thai actress Suvanant Kongying had made defamatory remarks about the Cambodian people. Thailand recalled all its envoys and expelled those of Cambodia.
In 2009, Thailand recalled the Thai ambassador to Cambodia after Cambodia appointed former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra as an economic advisor to its government. Cambodia later issued a statement, terminating Thaksin's advisory role. At the same time, it also recalled its ambassador to Thailand.
24 July 24 202511482 at http://prachataienglish.com - Senator faces legal action over misuse of ‘professor’ titleSenator faces legal action over misuse of ‘professor’ titleeng editor 3
Senator Keskamol Pleansamai faces legal action after the Election Commission (EC) ruled that she violated the law by falsely using the title ‘professor’ in her application. If found guilty, she could be imprisoned for up to 10 years and banned from standing for political office for 20 years.
A complaint against Keskamol was filed with the EC on 5 July by Pattharapong Supaksorn. On 18 July, the EC accepted the case and ruled against the senator. The case will be submitted to the Supreme Court’s Election Case Division.
According to the law, the offence carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years. Those found guilty are also disqualified from running for political office for 20 years.
The 45-year-old senator and physician drew public attention in last year’s Senate election when she secured the highest number of votes in the election. On her application, she claimed that she was a ‘professor’ who held a doctoral degree from California University.
It was later revealed that she obtained a PhD in Business Administration from California University, not the reputable University of California as was widely assumed. The certificate she received was also not an official degree, but rather a document issued by a credential evaluation service.
As a result, her use of the honorific ‘professor’ came under scrutiny. Receiving the academic title is usually granted through multiple processes, including royal approval. Keskamol acknowledged that she was not granted royal approval and was not recognised as a professor by any institution in Thailand.
She said instead that the EC previously allowed her to use the title in her Senate introduction document.
According to the EC, an appointment to the position of professor must follow the criteria governing academic titles and Keskamol does not appear in the official database of those legally holding the position.
The Ministry of Higher Education’s Office of the Permanent Secretary also never evaluated or recognised credentials from California University or California University FCE and Keskamol never served in academic circles as a professor.
As a result they concluded that her claim to be a professor, without ever having legally held the position in Thailand, was an act of deception, misleading the public regarding her qualifications and expertise.
23 July 23 202511480 at http://prachataienglish.com - Senior cadets given suspended sentence over death of first-year cadetSenior cadets given suspended sentence over death of first-year cadeteng editor 1
The Supreme Military Court ruled yesterday (22 July) to uphold suspended prison sentences against two senior cadets charged over the death of a first-year cadet in 2017.
Pakapong Tanyakan, a first-year cadet at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School, died on 17 October 2017 after he was ‘disciplined’ by two senior cadets, identified as Phumiphat and Phiphot, and a drill sergeant named Piyaphong.
It was reported that Pakapong recorded in a diary abuses and physical violence in the school and that he was assaulted and faced extreme disciplinary actions, including being forced to run against a doctor’s advice and to exercise in a sauna.
The school told his family that Pakapong died from sudden heart failure. However, his family found bruises on his body and requested another autopsy at the Central Forensic Institute of the Public Health Ministry, where it was found that some of Pakapong’s internal organs, including his heart and brain, were missing.
Pakapong’s death led to criticism of the military and questions about how the case was handled. In November 2017, the Chief of Defence Forces issued a statement admitting that Pakapong was punished by the senior cadets and drill sergeant. Meanwhile, his family filed a complaint with the Department of Special Investigation.
In March 2019, the two cadets and the drill sergeant were indicted for manslaughter. They were tried in the Military Court, which gave the two cadets suspended prison sentences.
ThaiPBS reported yesterday (22 July) that the Supreme Military Court ruled to uphold the Appeal Court’s verdict finding Phumiphat and Phiphot guilty. They were sentenced to 4 months and 15 days in prison and a fine of 15,000 baht. Their sentence was suspended for 2 years because the Court said that, given their age and the fact they have never been sentenced to prison before, it would not be useful to jail them. The Court also said that they should be given the chance to improve themselves and continue serving the country.
Pakapong’s family also filed a civil lawsuit against the Army and the Ministry of Defence for compensation. The Appeal Court ordered that the family be compensated. However, Pakapong’s mother Sukanya Tanyakan told Matichon Online ahead of today’s Supreme Military Court ruling that the family was paid 100,000 baht for funeral costs, but never received any other compensation.
Sukanya also posted on her Facebook page last night (22 July) that she hopes to launch an inquest in a civilian court into Pakapong’s death to resolve remaining questions about his cause of death.
The sentence given to the two senior cadets sparked widespread criticism of the Military Court and calls for reform as the sentence was seen as too light. People's Party MP Chayapon Satondee, spokesperson for the House Standing Committee on the Armed Forces, said in a press conference today (22 July) that the Supreme Military Court's ruling led to questions about the Military Court's standard and whether military court should exist when justice has not been delivered in cases where civilians file a complaint against military personnel.
Chayaphon, himself a former cadet at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School, noted that there several suspicions about the case, such as gaps in witness accounts of the events. He noted that the school has regulations about what punishment command students are allowed to give junior students, but Pakapong's punishment was not in line with said regulations. He also questioned why the students' commanding officers said they were not aware of what had taken place when they are responsible for the students.
It is time for the Army to implement its regulations, Chayaphon said. The Army would make excuses every time a Private or a Cadet is killed during disciplinary action, saying that it already has regulations prohibiting excessive actions, but Chayaphon said these regulations are not strictly implemented. He also questioned whether it is appropriate the two senior cadets were not only given such a light sentence for Pakapong's death and were not discharged from service. The preparatory school should be a safe zone for students to learn how to appropriately and safely use their power in the chain of command so that they would become good officers, he said, but the cadets involved in this case show that they had not exercise enough discretion to stay within the bounds of regulation and causing a loss of life. It is time for the Army to reform its internal system and how it trains future officers.
People's Party MP Ekkarach Udomumnouy, secretary of the House Standing Committee on the Armed Forces, noted during the same press conference the Military Court Act does not allow civilians to directly file charges with a military court but must do so through a military prosecutor.
The People's Party has filed a bill proposing amendments to the Military Court Act so that civilians can become plaintiffs in cases being handled by a Military Court, he said. The proposed amendments would also make military court independent, transparents, and give plaintiffs the same rights as civilian courts. It had also proposed amending the Constitution to abolish military courts during peacetime.
Under the new anti-torture and enforced disappearance act, cases of disciplinary actions resulting in death are seen as torture and tried in the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. Ekkarach said, however, that there has been attempts by the Army to have these cases tried in a military court. One example is a case involving the death of a conscript at Fort Mengraimaharaj in Chiang Rai, where defendants attempted to argue that the anti-torture and enforced disappearance act is unconstitutional and the case should be tried in a military court instead of the civilian Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases in Chiang Mai.
Ekkarach said that sentences given in a criminal case must be proportional to the offense. He is concerned that such a light sentence given in a military court would perpetuate a culture of impunity in the military, as soldiers might think that they will be given a light sentence as long as they are tried in a military court. He asked that the government support the proposed amendments to make a start on reforming the military.
23 July 23 202511481 at http://prachataienglish.com - Court dismisses request to remove Anon’s leg shackles during trialCourt dismisses request to remove Anon’s leg shackles during trialeng editor 3
The Criminal Court has dismissed a petition requesting an inquiry to end inhumane treatment of human rights lawyer Anon Nampa regarding the use of leg shackles during his royal defamation trial, citing that the practice was lawful.
The petition was filed on 28 May by Thai historian Thongchai Winichakul, the Cross Cultural Foundation (CrCF), and Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) after Anon Nampa was repeatedly seen with both legs shackled while being transferred from the Bangkok Remand Prison to the Ratchada Criminal Court to attend his royal defamation trials.
The petition, filed to address Anon’s case, urges the Court to hold an inquiry with the officers responsible for Anon’s custody to consider whether the use of leg shackles is truly necessary.
According to Thongchai, the requirement that detainees wear a prison uniform or shackles during their trial is a violation of human rights and dignity, which contradicts the principle of presumed innocence. Although such petitions must be submitted on a case-by-case basis, it is expected that they will provide a standard legal procedure that can be used to help other detainees.
He also noted that Section 21 of the 2017 Corrections Act stipulates that shackles only be used with high-risk prisoners or those who have attempted escape in the past, not detainees like Anon, a prominent figure in the international community who has been widely and repeatedly recognised for his work to protect human rights. His royal defamation cases have drawn global attention, and Thongchai argues that images of him shackled in court undermine the credibility of Thailand’s judicial system.
Anon has been held in detention since 26 September 2023 for 10 royal defamation convictions. He now faces a cumulative prison sentence of 29 years and 1 month.
Anon’s testimony
During his detention, Anon was both a defendant and a lawyer. He stated that he was shackled every time he commuted from the prison to the Court. The sharp edges of the shackles caused abrasions on his skin, leaving fresh wounds.
As he was required to appear in court several consecutive days, the shackles repeatedly rubbed against the same wounds, particularly when he walked around the court performing his duties as a lawyer. This occurred despite the fact that he has never attempted to flee, and always appears in court as required.
In addition, Anon noted that the shackles would be dragged along the floor as he walked, creating loud clanking noises. He also felt humiliated by the gaze of both complainants and witnesses, especially when he had to perform his duties without being able to wear a proper suit as a lawyer did. He asserted that this treatment deprived him of his dignity as a lawyer.
As a father, Anon did not want his children to see him in shackles.
Anon stated that not only should those prosecuted for political expression be spared such treatment, but no detainees should be treated as if they have already been convicted with a final verdict.
He observed that some detainees had to tie a rope with the chains connected to shackles to prevent them from dragging on the ground and rubbing against their ankles. Some detainees even had to bend down to lift the chains before being able to stand and walk.
As a human rights lawyer, he believes that those who committed crimes deserve to be treated in a manner proportionate to their punishment. They may be imprisoned, but they should not suffer from being shackled like this.
Anon also argued that human dignity should be upheld at the policy level, both within the Corrections Department and courts, rather than being left to the discretion of individual officers.
Unnecessary shackling is unconstitutional
Prinya Thaewanarumitkul, a law professor at Thammasat University, said shackling Anon while his case has not yet reached a final verdict violates the Constitution, which guarantees the presumption of innocence. Additionally, the Constitutional Court previously ruled in 2011 that the use of shackles was unconstitutional.
Although the Corrections Act authorizes shackling, such power must be strictly exercised under the Constitution, which stipulates that any law that limits rights and freedoms must comply with the conditions in the Constitution.
Prinya also stated that only suspects or defendants who are likely to flee should be held in detention . This approach also aligns with the minimum standards set by the United Nations.
Shackles were abolished a century ago
Sarunyu Thepsongkraow, a historian who studies modern Thai punishment, said that before the legal reforms during the reign of King Rama V, detainees were subjected to harsh practices, including being shackled at the feet and neck.
Even after the Corrections Department was established in the reign of King Rama VI, the use of shackles, both inside and outside the prison, was abolished.
Sarunyu also added that during the tenure of Prime Minister Sarit Thanarat, political prisoners were not subjected to physical restraints, either while in prison or during transfer to court.
The Court dismissed the request
According to TLHR, the Court concluded that restricting freedom, the corrections officers’ actions were in accordance with the Corrections Act, adding that the petition lacked sufficient grounds for further consideration.
A lawyer from the CrCF said the Court did not even mention the repeated injuries Anon had suffered from wearing leg shackles, despite having visible bruises and scars. In addition, corrections officers have never provided any justification for why Anon was placed in leg shackles.
An official form used to record the transfer of detainees to court contained only the detainees’ details and the size of shackles. The section of the form meant for explaining the reason for using shackles simply includes only a checkbox labelled “to prevent escape,” which officers tick and sign off on.
However, they did not provide reasons that led them to assume the detainee might attempt to flee. This practice has become standard, even though officers should be required to provide clear justifications.
In response to the Court’s decision, Thongchai said it confirmed that the courts continue to legitimise legal exceptions, turning them into normal practice in the country. Meanwhile, Anon asserted that he would appeal, stating that the new practice would also serve as a precedent, ensuring all detainees are free from shackles.
22 July 22 202511479 at http://prachataienglish.com