The Cambodian national news agency AKP published a letter on 4/8 from King Norodom Sihamoni, signed two days prior, granting Senate President Hun Sen "full authority to oversee matters related to the military, national defense, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the country."

"In the face of serious threats and violations of territorial integrity by Thai armed forces, and in the spirit of the Constitution, I authorize Mr. Hun Sen to cooperate with Prime Minister Hun Manet on all matters related to national defense," King Sihamoni wrote.

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni in Paris, France, in October 2024. Photo: Reuters

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni in Paris, France, in October 2024. Photo: Reuters

The letter also expressed admiration and praised Cambodian soldiers "fighting bravely on the front lines," as well as citizens throughout the country who have shown solidarity during the conflict.

King Sihamoni also commended the Cambodian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, for "fighting on all fronts"—military, diplomatic, political, and legal—to protect Cambodia's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Fighting between Cambodia and Thailand broke out near the Ta Moan Thom temple on the morning of 24/7 and later spread to other areas along the border, including the Ta Kwai and Preah Vihear temples. This is the most serious clash between the two neighboring countries in over 10 years, resulting in 38 deaths, including 25 Thais and 13 Cambodians.

Cambodia and Thailand negotiated in Malaysia on 28/7 and reached a ceasefire agreement. Leaders of the Thai and Cambodian military regions agreed not to deploy additional forces or move troops along the border to implement the agreement.

Ngoc Anh (AKP, Thai Enquirer, EAC News)