Kuwait city: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for an independent investigation into attacks by the Thai army on Cambodian civilians in a border village. He warned against the continued use of force against innocents.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Manet stressed the need for foreign experts to uncover facts and ensure justice for the victims. He stated that the violence contradicts humanitarian principles and violates previous agreements for peaceful border dispute resolution under the joint border committee.
Manet urged local authorities and security forces to take urgent measures to protect civilians, reaffirming Cambodia's commitment to a peaceful settlement. This commitment aligns with the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration signed on October 26, 2025, which aims to end conflict and build lasting peace.
Thai Royal Army spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvari responded by stating that Thai forces acted in accordance with rules of engagement, claiming that Cambodian troops fired first. He mentioned that Thai soldiers took defensive positions and fired warning shots for about 10 minutes, with no casualties reported.
The incident occurred following Thailand's suspension of a reinforced ceasefire with Cambodia after a landmine explosion near Preah Vihear Temple injured two Thai soldiers on Tuesday. Cambodia denied planting new mines, attributing them to past civil wars.
The reinforced ceasefire, signed during the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia under the "Kuala Lumpur Declaration," aimed to build on the US-brokered truce reached in July. This truce was established when former President Donald Trump urged both leaders to end hostilities or face suspension of trade talks with Washington.