Thai invasion of Cambodia reaches global media, notes information minister

[Information minister Neth Pheaktra has thanked the global media for sharing the Thai invasion of Cambodia with the world. FB]

The world is finally hearing Cambodia’s case, with global media highlighting Thailand’s military aggression and clear violation of Cambodian sovereignty, Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra shared on December 17.

The minister emphasised that global media coverage has been crucial in bringing the world’s attention to the ongoing border conflict.

“Through CNN, Cambodia has brought its voice to the world. We have shared how the Thai military has launched an attack on Cambodia, while Cambodia has tried to be patient and respect the joint statement on the peace agreement signed on October 26,” Pheaktra said, via social media.

He stressed that Cambodia firmly rejects accusations from the Thai side and urged the international community to assess the on-the-ground realities and factual evidence before drawing conclusions.

“We thank all global media for featuring the truth about the Thai military’s violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity and their use of disproportionate weapons in the invasion of Cambodia,” he said.

Conflict continues along the Cambodia-Thailand border, with reports of armed clashes in multiple military regions.

Cambodian authorities have repeatedly called for restraint and adherence to the joint declaration signed by the two governments in late October, aimed at restoring peace and stability in the disputed areas.

Pheaktra highlighted reporting by the South China Morning Post, which cited Agence France Press (AFP) and Associated Press (AP) articles that reflect both sides of the conflict.

“Cambodia says Thai F16 bombers dropped bombs near refugee camps in Siem Reap province. Thai military launches attacks on Cambodia,” he wrote.

“The voices of Cambodian citizens have asked the international community, especially US President Donald Trump, to help find a solution to achieve a ceasefire, peace and for civilians to return to their homes as soon as possible, because their rice crops have not yet been harvested.”

He also cited The Times, which reported that Thailand’s strikes have triggered the worst refugee crisis in Cambodia since the genocide, with nearly half a million people fleeing their homes.

Sharing Reuters coverage, Pheaktra noted that Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence has claimed nearly daily that the Thai military is using “toxic gas”, including in a recent incident at a village where Cambodian forces were stationed.

The ministry described the use of gas and other tactics as a clear violation of international law.

Global media reporting, according to Pheaktra, provides a key platform for Cambodia to present its position, counter misleading narratives and ensure international awareness of the situation on the ground.

As the conflict persists, Cambodian officials continue to appeal for diplomatic solutions and respect for international norms regarding territorial integrity while monitoring the escalation along the border.

From December 7 to 7am on December 18, indiscriminate attacks, including shelling and aerial bombardment of civilian areas, have killed 18 Cambodian civilians and injured 79 others.

Over 140,000 families — more than 470,000 people, including over 240,000 women and 130,000 children — have been displaced, with many fleeing to provinces far from the border.

-The Phnom Penh Post-