Phnom Penh: Cambodia has dismissed a baseless allegation made by the Thai Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Nikorndej Balankura, on June 19 that Cambodia abused diplomatic etiquette and damaged bilateral relations between the two countries. Spokesperson of the Senate of Cambodia, H.E. Chea Thirith, turned down the allegation, making factual clarification that Thai troops were the first to open fire on the Cambodian side on May 28, 2025, in Preah Vihear province, killing a soldier, and Thailand unilaterally closed the border gates with Cambodia.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Chea Thirith questioned who the real diplomatic etiquette abuser is, highlighting the actions of the Thai troops and their impact on bilateral relations. Meanwhile, the Minister Delegate Attached to the Prime Minister and Head of the Government Spokesperson Unit, H.E. Pen Bona, described the shooting and killing of the Cambodian soldier on Cambodian territory, repeated threats to start a war with Cambodia, unilateral closure of the border, and the threat to cut off electricity and internet to Cambodia as acts of tyranny and discrimination.
The deadly border incident and further provocations by the Thai side have escalated tensions between the two neighbours, particularly concerning the controversy in the Mom Bei area and the temple complexes of Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch, and Ta Krabei. In response to these developments, Cambodia remains firm in protecting its territory and people.
On June 15, Cambodia submitted its official complaint to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the border disputes, seeking a long-term and peaceful resolution between the country and neighbouring Thailand.