Thai - Cambodia Conflict Thai Army Returns Wounded Cambodian Soldiers

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In an unexpected demonstration of goodwill, Thailand has repatriated two Cambodian soldiers wounded and stranded after intense border fighting last week. The Royal Thai Army returned the men today on humanitarian grounds after providing medical and psychological care. Both soldiers pledged never to engage in combat against Thailand again.

 

The clashes, which erupted along the Thai-Cambodian border from July 24 to 29, left Sergeant Mom Rithi and Acting Second Lieutenant Ang Aung separated from their unit. At 10:55 AM on Friday, the Thai-Cambodian Border Coordination Unit in Sector 2 Chong Chom facilitated their return to Cambodia, highlighting a collaborative effort between Thai security agencies and immigration authorities in Surin Province.

 

Sergeant Mom Rithi was found in a ditch seven days after being injured, suffering from a broken arm and a severely infected wound on his right hip. Upon discovery, he received immediate medical attention from Thai forces.

 

Acting Second Lieutenant Ang Aung, on the other hand, showed signs of significant psychological distress, likely due to combat stress. Thai officials ensured he received psychological counselling to stabilise his condition, deeming family support critical for his recovery.

 

Thai authorities were meticulous in adhering to international human rights standards during the soldiers' treatment and repatriation. Officials confirmed that procedures strictly followed the Geneva Conventions, ensuring humane treatment of the wounded soldiers. Thailand’s Act on the Prevention of Torture and Enforced Disappearance and the Immigration Act were also fully observed, reinforcing a commitment to international law.

 

The soldiers' safe return was accompanied by a solemn promise: both Sergeant Rithi and Lieutenant Aung vowed to abstain from future hostilities against Thailand. This public pledge is seen as a significant gesture towards peace between the neighbouring nations.

 

This act of repatriation and the soldiers' vow are being interpreted as a potential stepping stone towards resolving ongoing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Despite the recent border clashes, the incident underscores the possibilities for reconciliation and humane treatment in the midst of conflict.

 

Local experts perceive Thailand's actions as a strategic and potentially healing move in a region often fraught with historical and territorial disputes. By focusing on humanitarian principles even amidst military tensions, Thailand sets a precedent for handling such crises with compassion and respect for human rights.

 

Regional reactions to the incident reflect a cautiously optimistic outlook. While the immediate conflict has subsided, lasting peace will require continued dialogue and confidence-building measures from both sides.

 

The handover ceremony, held with all necessary formalities, symbolises a mutual desire to reduce tensions and prevent future conflicts. Cambodian and Thai diplomats are anticipated to engage in further discussions to solidify this newfound understanding and explore ways to reinforce security and cooperation along the shared border.

 

In the complex world of international relations, small acts of humanity can pave the way for larger resolutions. The repatriation of Sergeant Rithi and Lieutenant Aung is more than a return of personnel; it’s a hopeful message that peace and empathy can inspire dialogues towards lasting harmony. As the two nations look to the future, collaboration and mutual understanding will be key in fostering a stable and peaceful relationship.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-08-01