Thailand Tells UN Cambodia Attacks Killed 19 Civilians in 2025

Thailand has told a United Nations forum in New York that cross-border attacks from Cambodia in 2025 killed 19 civilians, injured 51 others and displaced more than 400,000 residents. The statement was delivered on 22 April 2026 during the ECOSOC (United Nations Economic and Social Councilj Forum on Financing for Development Follow-up. Thailand exercised its right of reply after remarks made by the Cambodian delegation.

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According to a statement from the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the United Nations, Ambassador and Permanent Representative Cherdchai Chaivaivid said Thailand had long supported Cambodia’s peacebuilding and development. He cited assistance during Cambodia’s civil war and its reintegration into ASEAN and the global economy. Thailand also hosted large numbers of refugees in the 1970s and 1980s and has provided more than US$17 million in development aid, technical support and scholarships since the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the envoy said recent developments had strained bilateral relations. He alleged that Cambodia carried out “unprovoked and indiscriminate armed attacks” on Thai territory in July and December 2025. These attacks, he said, caused civilian casualties and large-scale displacement.

“These attacks claimed 19 civilian lives, injured 51 others, displaced over 400,000 people, and affected more than 400 hospitals,” he said. He added that Thailand acted in self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter. The envoy also raised concerns about landmine contamination in border areas, alleging Cambodia continued planting new explosives despite receiving international demining assistance.

He further claimed Cambodia had become a hub for online scam operations generating billions of US dollars annually, contributing to global financial losses and human trafficking. These claims were not independently verified in the statement. The exchange formed part of a broader diplomatic response between the two countries at the forum.

The remarks highlight rising tensions between Thailand and Cambodia and could affect regional cooperation and development initiatives. The issue of border security, landmines and alleged criminal networks may draw further international attention.

Khaosod reported that further diplomatic exchanges between the two countries are likely at international forums. Any escalation or resolution may depend on bilateral talks and responses from the Cambodian government. The situation may also influence regional stability and cooperation within ASEAN.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 24 Apr 2026