Thailand rejects international mediation in escalating conflict with Cambodia

BANGKOK, July 25 – Thailand has firmly declined proposals from international actors seeking to mediate its intensifying border conflict with Cambodia, stating that any resolution must come solely through direct dialogue between the two nations. The Thai government emphasized that the Cambodian side must first halt its aggressive actions along the shared frontier.

Tensions that have simmered for years between Thailand and Cambodia erupted into widespread fighting this week, with artillery shelling reported for a second consecutive day. The clashes, centered around a historically contested section of the border, have already claimed at least 16 lives, most of them Thai civilians. These hostilities mark the most severe confrontation between the two Southeast Asian nations in over a decade.

Despite diplomatic overtures from several countries including the United States, China, and Malaysia, Thailand remains resolute in its position to keep the issue strictly bilateral. Speaking on Friday, Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura stated clearly, “We do not consider third-party mediation necessary at this time.” He added that constructive dialogue is possible, but only if Cambodia first ceases its military aggression.

The conflict reignited early Thursday when both countries accused each other of initiating an attack near a disputed border area. What began as an exchange of small arms fire rapidly escalated into the use of heavy artillery and shelling, intensifying concerns about regional stability. The border area in question has long been a point of contention, with sovereignty claims from both sides dating back more than a century.

Thailand maintains that a peaceful resolution is only achievable through established bilateral mechanisms. “This is a matter between two sovereign states,” Nikorndej said, “and we believe that continuing to work through our existing channels is the most effective approach. Our stance remains firm — bilateral talks are the way forward, and the violence must stop immediately.”

The Thai government reiterated that while it is not seeking external intervention, its diplomatic channels remain open. “We have not shut the door to diplomacy,” Nikorndej continued. “We are willing to talk, but only when the other side is ready to cease its hostile behavior and come to the table in good faith.”

In contrast, Cambodia’s leadership has opted for an international route. On Thursday, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet submitted a formal request to the United Nations Security Council, urging it to convene a session to address what he described as “unprovoked and premeditated military aggression” by Thailand. The Security Council later decided to convene a private session on Friday to address the ongoing conflict.

The situation further deteriorated after Thailand recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh and ordered Cambodia’s envoy to leave the country on Wednesday. This diplomatic move followed a series of landmine explosions that injured several Thai soldiers stationed near the border. Thai authorities accuse Cambodia of laying the mines recently, though Cambodian officials have strongly denied the allegations.

Malaysia, holding the current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), has expressed its willingness to help open channels of communication between Thailand and Cambodia. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that he had personally reached out to leaders from both nations, urging them to choose dialogue and diplomacy instead of further heightening tensions.

Nikorndej acknowledged Malaysia’s efforts and the importance of ASEAN’s role in maintaining regional peace. “If members of the ASEAN community wish to support a return to bilateral talks and assist in de-escalation, we are open to that kind of constructive involvement,” he said. “But we still believe the primary resolution should come directly through discussions between Thailand and Cambodia.”

Observers in the region fear that continued conflict could destabilize not only the immediate border areas but also have wider implications for Southeast Asia’s security landscape. Economic activity in the region has already begun to suffer due to the fighting, with roadways closed and local residents fleeing the affected areas.

The decades-long dispute has seen sporadic clashes in the past, but this week’s violence appears more intense and sustained than previous incidents. Both nations claim the disputed area is part of their historical territory, often citing maps and treaties that date back to the colonial era.

As of now, there is no clear timeline for when talks might resume or when the fighting may subside. For residents living near the frontline, daily life has been upended by the sound of artillery and the looming fear of further escalation. Local Thai officials have begun evacuating civilians from high-risk areas, while emergency services remain on high alert.

In the absence of a ceasefire or formal diplomatic engagement, tensions remain high. Thailand continues to push for a peaceful outcome, but on its terms — without international mediation and only when Cambodia is willing to engage without violence.