In an interview on 17/12 with Nation TV, General Chaiyapruek Duangpraphat, the Thai army commander, stated that the current border conflict stems from Cambodia's "refusal to respect Thailand's sovereignty and territorial integrity". He accused Cambodia of failing to cooperate in implementing the peace agreement signed in Kuala Lumpur, and of carrying out "provocative actions", such as planting more landmines along the border, which resulted in casualties for Thai soldiers.

According to General Chaiyapruek, Thailand's objective is not to invade or occupy Cambodia, but to "degrade its military capabilities to a point where it cannot pose a long-term threat to Thailand".

"We have no intention of invading. Thailand possesses the military capacity to do so if necessary, but we will only use our full military strength to prevent Cambodia from entering Thailand's strategic areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an environment where Thai people can live safely in the long term", the Thai army commander emphasized. He also stated that the Thai military's objective in the current conflict is to "reclaim territory and ensure security for future generations".

Thai army commander, General Chaiyapruek Duangpraphat. *Photo: Nation Thailand*

A commentary article published by Cambodia's Khmer Times on 18/12 suggested that General Chaiyapruek's statement about "neutralizing Cambodia's military capabilities" was not an impulsive act, but "a war policy issued by the highest command". The article stated, "Under international law, publicly declaring such a war policy is not mere rhetoric, but grounds for attributing responsibility".

Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Cambodian Ministry of Defense, stated that as of the morning of 18/12, the Thai military continued to use various weapons to attack Cambodian territory, not only seriously undermining regional peace and stability but also affecting the foundations of international order. Socheata added that Cambodia called on the international community to "strongly condemn" Thailand's actions and demanded Bangkok take full responsibility. Phnom Penh reaffirmed its right to self-defense under international law to protect its territorial integrity and people at all costs.

The new round of clashes between the two countries has entered its 12th day, resulting in at least 40 deaths, including 21 soldiers and one civilian from Thailand, and 18 civilians from Cambodia. Hundreds of thousands of civilians in both countries had to evacuate from the border. Mediation efforts by the US and other countries have not made progress as Thailand and Cambodia blame each other for escalating the conflict, each demanding the other side cease fire first.

By Huyen Le (According to Nation Thailand, Khmer Times)