Shining a Light on Truth: How Thailand Twists Lies into Weapons

A Thai air force light bomber releases flares; Damage to a Cambodian pagoda; An unexploded MK-84 bomb dropped by Thai aircraft. Supplied

– Opinion –

Thailand has once again chosen deception over truth. By fabricating videos and photos to falsely accuse Cambodia of laying new landmines, the Thai government is trying to manipulate international opinion. This is not about peace or justice — it is a calculated attempt to smear Cambodia while covering up its own dangerous military aggression.

Cambodia remains a committed partner to the Ottawa Treaty, working tirelessly for decades to clear the deadly mines left from its tragic civil war. Thousands of lives have been saved through this painful but necessary work. To now accuse Cambodia of deliberately planting new mines is not only dishonest but an insult to the sacrifice of the Cambodian deminers who have risked their lives for peace. The so-called “evidence” released by the Thai Army is nothing more than staged theatre — fabricated scenes designed to create a false case.

While Thailand makes ants into elephants and elephants into ants, the truth remains: The real threat to peace along the border does not come from old landmines but from Thailand’s ongoing use of heavy, modern and indiscriminate weapons. Cambodian soldiers and civilians have endured relentless bombardment from Thai F-16 Fighting Falcons, Gripen fighter jets, MK82 and MK84 bombs, cluster munitions, 155mm heavy artillery and even white phosphorus munitions. These are not allegations — they are visible scars on Cambodian land and lives.

What could be more dangerous to humanity: A staged video of alleged mine-laying, or the destructive force of an MK84 bomb dropped from a jet fighter? What undermines peace more: Fabricated photos, or the use of cluster munitions that scatter death across villages, schools and temples? No video editing can erase the craters left by airstrikes, the burning of Cambodian homes or the funerals of those killed by modern weaponry.

By focusing global attention on a fabricated landmine story, Thailand seeks to divert scrutiny from its own violations of international law. This tactic is not only deceitful; it is dangerous. If the international community allows fabricated “evidence” to overshadow undeniable proof of cross-border aggression, truth itself becomes a casualty.

Cambodia remains committed to peace, international law and the permanent elimination of landmines. But it will not stay silent while Thailand attempts to disguise war crimes with staged images. The world must recognise the reality: Cambodia is not the aggressor. Thailand is using advanced war machines against its neighbour while hiding behind lies.

Reality cannot be faked. The destruction caused by bombs and heavy weapons speaks louder than any fabricated video. The international community must not be misled — Thailand’s lies cannot conceal its dangerous aggression against Cambodia.

Roth Santepheap is geopolitical analyst based in Phnom Penh. The views and opinions expressed are his own.