Thai - Cambodia Conflict Security Expert: Thailand in 'State of War' with Cambodia

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Photo courtesy of Thai PBS

 

In a provocative statement, Thai security and foreign affairs expert Dr. Panitan Wattanayagorn has raised an urgent query to Thai government leaders: are they aware that Thailand might be in a state of war with Cambodia?

 

Dr. Panitan made his thoughts public through a Facebook post, urging leaders to recognise the situation's gravity. He argued that acknowledging this state could pave the way to peace, as war and peace are fundamentally interconnected.

 

The notion of "Total War," as conceptualised by Professor Mara Karlin of Johns Hopkins University, was central to Dr. Panitan's message. According to Karlin, the shift to comprehensive conflict began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, signalling a resurgence of full-scale warfare.

 

In this modern context, "total war" involves the mobilisation of all available resources—weaponry, personnel, funding, and international alliances—emphasised Panitan. He noted that today's conflicts require leaders to prioritise war efforts, using advanced technology and market access to their advantage, especially against stronger foes.

 

Dr. Panitan also highlighted Ukraine's protracted struggle with Russia as an example of a smaller nation effectively engaging a larger adversary. He drew parallels with the situations involving Hamas and Israel, and the Iranian-supported Houthis in Yemen, facing off against international naval forces.

 

These conflicts epitomise a new, more intricate form of warfare, according to Panitan.

 

He cautioned that similar dynamics might apply closer to home, suggesting that if Cambodia's army—or ethnic groups in Myanmar and insurgents in Thailand's Deep South—decide to embrace "total war," it could escalate regional tensions.

 

On the topic of military strength, Dr. Panitan observed that the Thai army holds considerable advantages over Cambodia in various areas. However, he posed a critical question: why has the Thai military not been able to decisively overcome Cambodian forces?

 

Dr. Panitan believes the answer lies in leadership. He challenges Thai leaders to fully understand and embrace the concept of total war, urging them to accept that Thailand might already be engaged in hostilities with Cambodia.

 

His comments have sparked discussions about the current geopolitical climate in Southeast Asia, encouraging leaders and citizens alike to re-evaluate Thailand's strategic military and diplomatic postures.

 

The situation remains tense and complex, demanding careful navigation to avoid further escalation. Dr. Panitan's statements offer a stark reminder of how rapidly traditional notions of conflict are evolving in today's world.

 

In a region where historical tensions frequently simmer, his words serve as a call to action for clarity and strategic foresight among Thai policymakers.

 

Ultimately, understanding and acknowledging the current realities might be crucial in steering the nation towards a lasting peace and stability. Whether this approach will resonate with Thai leaders and prompt meaningful policy shifts remains to be seen.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS 2025-08-13