Phnom penh: Royal Government Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bon has issued a detailed response to address what he claims are misleading statements made by Thailand's Acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. The Thai leader had accused Cambodia of targeting civilians and committing war crimes, portraying himself as a proponent of peace and tolerance.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during a press briefing titled "Update on the Thai invasion of Cambodia," H.E. Pen Bona emphasized three main points to clarify Cambodia's stance. Firstly, he categorically rejected the allegations as unfounded and distorted, asserting that they contradicted the truth. He condemned Thailand's actions as a blatant violation of international law and an infringement on Cambodia's territorial integrity.
Secondly, H.E. Pen Bona highlighted that Cambodia is the victim of Thai aggression, a fact recognized internationally. He pointed out that the Cambodian people and military have been under threat from Thai armed forces, culminating in a significant military assault on July 24. In response to this aggression, Cambodia exercised its legitimate right to self-defense to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Lastly, he addressed the claims of attacks on civilians, stating that Thailand had targeted civilian areas in Cambodia. Specific incidents included bombings on a temple in Banteay Ampil district, a health center in Choam Ksant district, and several villages and homes, leading to civilian casualties, including children. Additionally, he accused Thailand of attacking the Preah Vihear Temple and a school in Samrong city, using prohibited cluster bombs, which he described as crimes against humanity.
H.E. Pen Bona concluded by urging citizens to verify information and rely on official sources to avoid falling prey to misinformation.