(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Information Minister Neth Pheaktra stated that Thailand has continued its blatant armed aggression against Cambodia, with the conflict entering its 11th consecutive day as of 17 December.
In a message posted on social media on Wednesday (Dec. 17), the minister said Thai forces have not only carried out attacks against Cambodian troops defending the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but have also deliberately targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure.
“The Thai military has continued its blatant aggression against Cambodian territory. As of 17 December, this marks the 11th day of Thailand’s armed aggression,” the minister wrote. “Thai forces have not only launched attacks against Cambodian troops defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but have also deliberately targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure.”
“Thailand has deceived the international community and falsely accused Cambodia in order to fabricate a pretext for its aggression. It is now evident to the world that Thailand initiated these attacks and waged a war of aggression to divert attention from its own deep internal political crisis,” he added.
The minister continued, “Thailand’s military actions against Cambodia do not constitute the exercise of the right of self-defence, as falsely claimed by Thai leaders and military officials to mislead both their own population and the international community. Rather, they represent a clear and flagrant violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The United Nations and the international community must take urgent measures to halt this aggression and the grave crimes being committed against the Cambodian nation and its people.”
According to Minister Neth Pheaktra, Thailand’s military aggression against Cambodia, including attacks deliberately targeting civilians, has resulted in the deaths of 17 Cambodian civilians and injuries to 77 others as of the evening of 16 December. It has also caused extensive damage to property and displaced more than 438,953 people.
=FRESH NEWS
