Cambodia Denies Thai Claim of First Shot in Border Clashes

Phnom Penh has vehemently rejected claims by a senior Thai military official that Cambodian forces fired first during armed clashes in July 2025, calling the allegation "unfounded and false." The Ministry of National Defence stated that Thai forces launched an "unprovoked armed attack" on Cambodian territory on July 24, 2025. The ministry accused Bangkok of portraying themselves as victims to justify military actions under the guise of self-defence following the incident. It pointed to Thailand's announcement of the "Chakrabongse Bhuvanath" war-readiness plan days before the clashes, suggesting this indicated a pre-planned response. Thailand has cited security concerns, alleged provocations, and landmine incidents in its position on the dispute and the resumption of joint survey and demarcation work. Cambodia asserted that such issues should not delay the implementation of the Joint Statement agreed upon on December 27, 2025, and urged Thailand to resume surveying and boundary demarcation through the Joint Boundary Commission. The ministry reiterated Cambodia's commitment to resolving the dispute peacefully under international law and existing treaties, but stressed that it would not accept the use of force or "faits accomplis" to alter the border. Cambodia warned that the clashes and subsequent claims underscore the need for transparency and adherence to agreements, and that attempts to distort facts risk undermining regional stability.