Manila:The Royal Thai Army has provided a detailed explanation to counter Cambodia's allegations, affirming that the disputed area remains under Thai sovereignty. The RTA has accused Cambodia of using distorted information to undermine Thailand on the international stage, which could affect the peace process between the two nations.
According to Thai News Agency, the RTA emphasized Thailand's commitment to humanitarian principles and international law. This follows comments by Cambodia's Ambassador to the United Nations, Mr. Ke Sovann, during an October 13, 2026 meeting in Geneva. He urged Thailand to resume negotiations and allow displaced Cambodians to return home, claiming that recent conflicts had displaced over 650,000 Cambodians, with more than 20,000 still unable to return. He also accused Thailand of occupying Cambodian territory and destroying infrastructure.
Major General Winthai Suvari, an RTA spokesperson, clarified that the figures presented by Cambodia were misleading. He explained that the number of Cambodians who sought refuge was indeed 650,000, but this figure does not reflect those currently unable to return. For Thailand, nearly 500,000 people were evacuated, with most returning home after the December 27, 2025 ceasefire.
Investigations in Sa Kaeo Province revealed about 4,600 displaced individuals, contradicting Cambodia's claims. The areas in question are within Thai sovereignty, with a longstanding issue of Cambodian settlement. The RTA stated that Thailand has tried to resolve these issues through the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding and related laws, but cooperation from Cambodia has been insufficient. The Army stresses the need to address settlement issues separately from the displacement caused by conflict.
The Army spokesperson affirmed that the areas claimed by Cambodia have long been within Thai territory and have been used as bases in past conflicts. Thailand's control of these areas is necessary for security, not occupation. The spokesperson reaffirmed Thailand's dedication to peaceful conflict resolution through bilateral agreements and stressed the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The RTA criticized Cambodia for spreading inaccurate information, suggesting it undermines conflict resolution efforts. The spokesperson urged Cambodia to prioritize the well-being of its citizens and engage sincerely in existing negotiation mechanisms rather than making accusations in international forums.