Thai - Cambodia Conflict US Backs Thailand Against Cambodia’s Info Warfare Edge

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Picture courtesy of the Government Public Relations Department

 

Cambodia is gaining an edge over Thailand in the realm of information warfare, a senior US official remarked during a strategic visit to Thailand. While addressing Thai military leaders, the US pledged its support to enhance accurate news dissemination using advanced technology.

 

During a meeting with Thai military chiefs, Andrew Byers, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for South and Southeast Asia, highlighted Cambodia's dominance in information warfare.

 

This strategic advantage has reportedly shaped global perceptions of tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. According to Thai Newsroom, Byers confirmed that the US intends to utilise the Internet of Things and Analytics of Things to validate news accuracy, with the goal of maintaining equilibrium.

 

The discussion also touched on ongoing issues along the border. The Thai army acknowledged US support for ceasefire dialogues and outlined their plan to address these matters in forthcoming General and Regional Border Committee sessions. Concerns have arisen regarding Cambodia's use of landmines and drones, which Thailand perceives as threats to its national sovereignty.

 

Fake news dissemination remains a thorny issue, reportedly fuelling tensions between neighbouring nations. This challenge complicates governmental responses and hampers effective control measures. An Interim Observer Team has been proposed by the Thai army as a temporary solution, with plans to establish a more permanent ASEAN Observer Team to manage border tensions.

 

Byers endorsed the use of ASEAN-driven solutions to resolve the conflict, thereby avoiding UN intervention. The US expressed strong backing for Malaysia and ASEAN efforts to mediate the situation. This alignment seeks to bolster regional cooperation and stability without escalating the issue to international platforms.

 

The engagement reflects the US commitment to maintaining peace and promoting truthful information in Southeast Asia, considering the rapid development of digital warfare tactics. In conclusion, Cambodia's informational advantage has created new challenges for Thailand, leading to the need for international collaboration to effectively address these dynamic conflicts.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-08-16