(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that the Cambodian government is closely monitoring the safety and wellbeing of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained by Thai authorities since July 29, 2025.

Samdech Thipadei wrote on his social media on Monday afternoon (Aug. 4) as follows:

“To our beloved fellow citizens,

Regardless of how the situation evolves, the Royal Government of Cambodia remains deeply committed to monitoring the safety of the 18 Cambodian soldiers who have been held in Thai custody since July 29, 2025. The government is implementing all necessary diplomatic and legal mechanisms to ensure their prompt and safe release.

In this effort, the Ministry of National Defence, the General Command, and Cambodia’s regional military commanders have maintained regular communication with their Thai counterparts. The Cambodian side has also requested Malaysia, in its role as current ASEAN Chair, to engage with Thai authorities regarding this issue.

Furthermore, the Royal Government has tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, through the Permanent Mission of Cambodia to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, to work with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to advocate for the soldiers’ immediate release.

At the same time, the Cambodian Human Rights Committee has been directed to cooperate with OHCHR, AICHR, and the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand to intensify efforts for the timely and safe return of all 18 Cambodian soldiers to their homeland.”
=FRESH NEWS