Cambodia and Thailand are trading sharp accusations after new reports of cross-border gunfire, raising concerns of renewed confrontation between the two neighbours.
Hun Sen, leader of Cambodia’s ruling party, expressed deep disappointment and accused Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of endangering soldiers and civilians by signalling a shift toward war with Cambodia for political gain. In a message posted with photos and video clips of earlier private meetings between Anutin and Cambodian officials, Hun Sen wrote that he never expected Anutin would risk people’s lives for the sake of future votes at a time when Cambodian forces were not responding militarily.
Some Cambodian political observers have pushed back at Hun Sen’s remarks, noting that he himself has long faced criticism for decisions made during conflicts under his leadership.
Hun Sen added that before becoming prime minister, Anutin had been a close friend of Cambodia but had now abandoned that relationship. He said he understood patriotic sentiment but argued that Anutin should not threaten war against a neighbour that was not retaliating.
The comments follow Anutin’s declaration that Thailand would close the door on further negotiations and prepare for the possibility of conflict with Cambodia. Thai Enquirer quoted Anutin as saying that Thailand was not the aggressor and would use military force only if necessary to protect its territory. Several Thai media outlets reported that the government and military had moved in line with public sentiment, calling for decisive action on border sovereignty.
Anutin also said Thailand would no longer consider mediation efforts from United States President Donald Trump or Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Writing on Facebook, Anwar voiced deep concern over renewed armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai forces and urged maximum restraint. He described both countries as close partners of Malaysia and key members of ASEAN, warning that continued fighting would complicate regional diplomacy. Malaysia, he said, was ready to support any steps that could prevent further escalation.
Anwar stressed that ASEAN cannot afford a prolonged conflict and called for an immediate end to hostilities, protection of civilians, and a return to diplomatic channels grounded in international law.
Vietnamese state media also reported concern in Hanoi over rising violence along the Cambodian-Thai border. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang urged both sides to avoid the use of force and resolve disputes under the UN Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
Tensions come despite a peace agreement signed on October 26, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur under the witness of Anwar and Donald Trump. Analysts now warn that the accord may not be enough to halt a cycle of accusations and cross-border attacks between the two countries.
