Bangkok Says No Nation Has Taken Thailand’s Side Amid Cambodia Tensions

Thailand’s Minister of Defense, General Natthaphon Narkphanit

Bangkok, 23 December 2025 — Thailand’s Minister of Defense, General Natthaphon Narkphanit, stated that no country has openly taken Thailand’s side amid the ongoing tensions with Cambodia, asserting that the international community maintains a posture of declared neutrality while, in practice, aligning more closely with Cambodia.

In a candid assessment, General Natthaphon said that although many states describe themselves as neutral, they primarily rely on information from the Cambodian side and perceive Thailand as a larger country engaging in aggression. He acknowledged that this perception has shaped international reactions to the situation.

As the official responsible for national defense policy, the Thai Defense Minister emphasized that Thailand’s actions are strictly defensive, affirming that they are conducted in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, and guided by the principles of necessity and proportionality. He called on the Thai public to remain calm and reassured, underscoring his confidence that Thailand is adhering to international law.

General Natthaphon further expressed concern that no country has condemned Cambodia over allegations of landmine deployment in Thai territory. Instead, he noted, international responses have largely focused on urging Thailand to reduce the use of force and pursue de-escalation, a stance he said the Thai government is fully aware of.

Concluding his remarks, the Defense Minister reiterated his confidence that Thailand is on the right path, maintaining that the country’s actions remain lawful and consistent with its international obligations.

The statement highlights growing frustration within Bangkok over perceived diplomatic isolation and reflects Thailand’s effort to frame its conduct as legitimate self-defense under international law amid mounting regional and international scrutiny.