Thailand agreed to release the 19 soldiers, but only pressure from the United States, not by its own will
Thailand’s attempt to paint Cambodia as the aggressor is crumbling under the weight of its own actions. While Thailand initially dominated headlines, convincing some that Cambodia triggered the border clashes first, the truth is becoming increasingly clear: Thailand’s words do not match its conduct. For instance, Thailand broke the worlds’ trust twice through their breaching ceasefire.
The latest incident, where Thai troops pretended to offer a friendly gesture only to capture Cambodian soldiers after the ceasefire, reveals a calculated ploy to provoke Cambodia into breaking the truce. Yet Cambodia has refused to fall into this trap, demonstrating restraint and maturity in line with international law and the rules-based order. This principled stance has not gone unnoticed; even the United States appears to lean toward Cambodia’s position.
During ceasefire talks in Malaysia, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim accorded visible respect to Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet, while Thailand’s acting prime minister was treated as a mere placeholder rather than a credible leader. Thailand’s diplomatic missteps and deceptive tactics are eroding its credibility, leaving the world to question who the real aggressor is.
Author: Huy PanhaCHEZDA