Mr. Mao Vutha, a former journalist with a bachelor’s degree in media and communication from the Department of Media and Communication (DMC) at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, has revealed five major weaknesses of Thailand in the face of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
He emphasized that what is most noteworthy is Thailand’s blatant disregard for UNSC appeals, with the Siamese aggressors not only ignoring diplomatic calls but also intensifying tensions with Cambodia.
Weaknesses of the Siamese Aggressors:
- The Siamese side initiated the situation by portraying themselves as the victim — pretending to show goodwill toward Cambodia, claiming a history of support since the country’s independence, and acting as a “good neighbor.” Yet ironically, they now find themselves being scrutinized before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
The Thai side insists that it has always loved peace and has no desire for violence, yet claims it is “forced” to defend itself from alleged encroachment and aggression by Cambodia.
It seems the Siamese may have forgotten that members of the Security Council are not mere moviegoers watching a fictional drama. These are individuals of sound judgment and critical thinking — who can clearly assess the absurdity of claiming that a nation of 17 million (Cambodia) would attempt to violate the sovereignty of a country with nearly 80 million people (Thailand).
- The Siamese side claims that the Cambodian side initiated the conflict by opening fire on their troops in the morning of July 24. However, the Siamese aggressors have been unable to provide clear and credible evidence to support their claim. This is because the UN requires neutral and mutually recognized evidence from both parties. (Although this may be difficult to achieve, it does not mean it is impossible.)
- Although the Siamese Foreign Minister personally went to the UN headquarters, they were already one step behind Cambodia, as our side had submitted a letter first. The Thai side often hesitates to accept mediation from others. But when they realize that evasion is no longer possible, they rush to gather information in a way that portrays themselves as the victim. Typically, as always with the Siamese aggressors, they try to fabricate narratives — collecting footage of gunfire from social media (mostly posted by Cambodians), including images of civilians injured in hospitals or damaged shops — and exaggerate the number of civilian deaths. However, their underlying intention is already quite clear.
- Siam has admitted to using cluster munitions, even though they claim it was in self-defense. However, this act already violates international treaties, and they have not offered much of a justification either.
- The Siamese side accuses Cambodia of avoiding negotiations and trying to provoke war for its own political gain. But while Siam points one finger at Cambodia, they forget that three fingers point back at themselves — especially with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current ASEAN Chair, serving as a clear witness to the situation.
Although the closed-door meeting of the United Nations Security Council was merely to hear testimonies from both parties without any formal resolution, Cambodia’s appeal was clearly heard by the UN. The Council offered three brief recommendations:
- Urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint,
- Called for a complete halt to all armed violence, and
- Encouraged a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Another clear indication of the situation is that, after the meeting ended, the Thai delegation avoided the press and refused to give any interviews to the waiting journalists.
It should be noted that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is a body established by the UN Charter, with primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The Security Council is composed of 15 member countries, including 5 permanent members: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The remaining 10 are non-permanent members elected by term. For the 2025 term, these non-permanent members include Algeria, Guyana, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia.
The Security Council has the authority to convene meetings related to security issues and conflicts that threaten global peace, and it can summon conflicting parties to resolve disputes and offer recommendations. The meeting on the Cambodia-Thailand dispute was held as a private session, during which testimonies were heard from both sides.
Cambodia was represented by H.E. Kao Chhea, a verteran diplomat with extensive experience, deep knowledge, and strong capabilities. His wife is also a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a fellow diplomat.
