Hun Sen Warns Thailand: Honour 1907 Treaty or Face ‘Theft’ Claim

[geovalin]

 

 

Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has issued a stark warning to Thailand, demanding it respect the 1907 Franco–Siamese Treaty or risk being accused of “historical theft” amid rising tensions along the two countries’ shared border.

 

Speaking in Preah Vihear province on Thursday, where hundreds of Cambodian civilians have fled recent military skirmishes, Hun Sen accused Thailand of redrawing the border unilaterally and ignoring internationally recognised maps. “Thailand signed that treaty with France, and must acknowledge it,” he said. “Violating it is tantamount to theft.”

 

His remarks come after a month of escalating friction, triggered by a skirmish in the Mom Bei area. Cambodia blames “warmongers” in Bangkok for fuelling the conflict, while Hun Sen said the crisis has forced civilians — including pregnant women and the elderly — to flee their homes.

 

In a fiery address to troops stationed along the frontier, Hun Sen, a former Prime Minister and five-star general, vowed to defend Cambodian territory and warned that Cambodian forces are prepared not only to defend but “go on the offensive” if provoked. “We are not invading any country,” he said. “But we will never allow ourselves to be invaded or humiliated.”

 

Hun Sen also dismissed reports from Thai media claiming he had assumed military command. He clarified that the title “Senior Logistics General” was a symbolic gesture of support from commanders and does not reflect any official military role. “I am here to offer moral and logistical support — not to issue orders,” he wrote on social media.

 

Despite stepping down as Prime Minister last year, Hun Sen remains a powerful figure in Cambodian politics and retains strong ties with the armed forces. He framed the current crisis not only as a challenge but as an opportunity for unity, calling on citizens to prepare for self-defence, maintain food supplies, and support the military effort.

 

“Cambodia wants peace,” he concluded, “but we are prepared for war if necessary.”

 

With tensions at their highest in years, regional observers are closely watching for any signs of further military escalation along the disputed border.

 

 

-2025-06-27