Thailand Issues Stern Warning to Cambodia Ahead of Border Talks
Chanthaburi, Thailand – On 23 December, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, General Nattaphon Narkphanit, issued a stern warning to Cambodia as both countries prepared for a critical General Border Committee (GBC) meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 24 December in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. In a statement following a Cabinet meeting at Government House, General Nattaphon emphasized Thailand’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and outlined conditions for the upcoming talks, which he described as “non-negotiable.”
A Shift Toward Stricter Terms
General Nattaphon made it clear that Thailand would not sign any agreements unless certain core conditions were met. These conditions, he argued, were necessary due to Cambodia’s alleged violations of previous agreements, including the failure to uphold peace commitments made in prior declarations.
At the heart of Thailand’s concerns are accusations that Cambodia has violated the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use and production of anti-personnel landmines. General Nattaphon specifically accused Cambodia of continuing to produce and deploy anti-personnel mines, including newly manufactured versions. These claims have raised alarms within the Thai government, particularly as the Cambodian military reportedly continued to lay mines after the joint declaration signed on 26 October 2025, further escalating tensions between the two nations.
The Thai Defense Minister also expressed concern about Cambodia’s military use of ancient cultural sites. According to General Nattaphon, Cambodian forces have used historical landmarks such as Ta Krabei Temple, Khna Temple, and Preah Vihear Temple as military positions. The strategic use of these sites is seen as both a violation of international law and a threat to cultural heritage.
Civilian Safety at Risk
One of the most alarming accusations made by Thailand concerns the use of civilian infrastructure for military purposes. General Nattaphon criticized the Cambodian military for allegedly converting civilian buildings, including casinos, into military positions and weapons depots. The use of civilians as human shields was also highlighted, with the Defense Minister referencing footage of women in military uniforms firing on Thai soldiers.
These actions have been condemned by Thailand, which stresses that civilian safety should be prioritized above all else in any conflict. General Nattaphon indicated that such tactics are not only illegal but could have devastating humanitarian consequences. “The ongoing hostilities pose a serious risk to civilians, and this cannot be overlooked,” he stated.
Thailand’s Approach: Diplomacy and Defense
General Nattaphon provided an overview of Thailand’s diplomatic and military response, which has evolved over the course of the conflict. He described the current phase as one of heightened negotiations following the most recent clashes in July 2025. Prior to that, Thailand had followed a policy of peaceful negotiations, but the escalation of violence, including the continued use of BM-21 rockets by Cambodian forces, has forced a shift toward more assertive diplomacy.
Thailand, according to General Nattaphon, is ready to respond to any further provocations with “proportional” force. The government has made it clear that it will not tolerate any continued violations of its sovereignty. In the event that Cambodia fails to adhere to the peace commitments, Thailand is prepared to defend itself in line with international law, specifically Article 51 of the UN Charter, which guarantees a nation’s right to self-defense.
International and Domestic Support
Despite some international support for Cambodia, particularly from countries sympathetic to its position, Thailand has made it clear that it will rely on “verifiable facts” in both military operations and international diplomacy. General Nattaphon emphasized that the Thai government is committed to ensuring the integrity of its borders and maintaining peace in the region.
The upcoming GBC meeting in Chanthaburi is expected to be a critical moment in the ongoing conflict. Thailand has chosen the province for the meeting due to its relative safety compared to other border regions that have seen direct clashes. General Nattaphon assured the public that Cambodia’s delegates would be provided with security, and he called on the Thai public and media to support the peace talks by maintaining calm and respecting security protocols.
A Path Toward Peace?
The outcome of the GBC meeting will be crucial in determining whether peace can be restored between Thailand and Cambodia or whether tensions will escalate further. With both nations standing firm on their positions, the meeting represents a pivotal moment in their ongoing dispute. As Thailand continues to focus on both military preparedness and diplomatic efforts, the world will be watching closely to see if the border talks can pave the way for a lasting peace or if the conflict will continue to intensify.
Conclusion
The situation on Thailand’s border with Cambodia remains tense as both countries prepare for crucial talks. Thailand’s firm stance on Cambodia’s alleged violations and the need for strict conditions at the General Border Committee meeting underscores the high stakes involved. With accusations of mine production, the use of civilian buildings for military purposes, and concerns over civilian safety, Thailand’s approach is one of caution, but also readiness to defend its sovereignty.
The upcoming meeting could either mark a step toward peace or set the stage for further escalation, depending on whether both parties can reach a meaningful agreement that respects international law and prioritizes civilian protection.
