Thailand presents evidence at UN Security Council, rebuts Cambodia’s claims and cites right to self-defence

On 15 December 2025, Thailand presented its position at the United Nations Security Council, responding to recent statements by Cambodia regarding the Thai-Cambodian border situation.

The remarks were delivered by Minister-Counsellor Rachada Suthepakul during the Security Council’s open debate on “Leadership for Peace.” The presentation followed Cambodia’s references to the dispute at that meeting and at the UN Peacebuilding Commission’s session on the “Peaceful Settlement of Border Disputes in Central Asia.”

Thailand stated that Cambodia’s characterisation of the situation was inaccurate and undermined the spirit of multilateral cooperation. In response, the Thai delegation outlined key developments since early December.

Ambassador Suthepakul reported that on 7 December 2025, armed actions attributed to Cambodian forces resulted in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Over 400,000 civilians were displaced, approximately 200 hospitals and primary care centres suspended operations, and nearly 400 schools were forced to close temporarily.

Thailand stated that these events constitute a violation of international humanitarian law. It further emphasised that its response has been conducted in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter, which affirms a member state's inherent right to self-defence.

The Thai delegation underscored that its operations adhere strictly to the principles of necessity, proportionality, distinction, and precaution, with the stated aim of safeguarding national sovereignty and protecting civilian lives.

During the session, Thailand also referred to evidence presented earlier by its Foreign Minister at the 22nd Meeting of States Parties to the Ottawa Convention in Geneva. This evidence, verified by the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), included video footage indicating the emplacement of new PMN-2 anti-personnel landmines in Thai territory.

Thailand noted that these developments occurred shortly after the seizure of assets worth billions of US dollars from Cambodian nationals allegedly involved in online scams. According to Thai authorities, these individuals are believed to be associated with figures in Cambodia’s leadership.

In its UN presentation, Thailand stated it is prepared to pursue peaceful resolution efforts. However, it stressed that constructive engagement requires Cambodia to demonstrate sincerity, adhere to its international obligations, and refrain from further acts of hostility or provocation.

Thailand concluded by reiterating its commitment to international law and its desire to preserve regional stability through diplomatic means.