Global Observers Visit Si Sa Ket
Assessing Impact of Border Conflict
On August 1, 2025, the Royal Thai Army escorted a delegation of over 105 foreign military attachés, diplomats, and journalists to Si Sa Ket province to witness the aftermath of recent Cambodian military actions. Departing from Don Mueang Air Force Base in Bangkok, the group, including representatives from 23 countries, aimed to observe damage to civilian infrastructure caused by alleged ceasefire violations, highlighting Thailand’s commitment to transparency in the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border dispute.
Civilian Sites Hit by Artillery
Devastation at Schools and Hospitals
The delegation toured sites in Si Sa Ket, including a PTT petrol station in Ban Phue, Kantharalak district, struck by a Cambodian BM-21 rocket, resulting in eight civilian casualties and ten injuries. Phum Srol Witthaya School in Sao Thongchai sustained structural damage, while Tambon Sam Meng health promotion hospital, hit by artillery, remains out of service after staff and patients were evacuated. These visits underscored the impact of the conflict on non-military targets, raising concerns about adherence to international humanitarian standards.
Briefing at Military Base
Detailing Cambodian Aggression
At the 22nd Military Circle in Sunpasitthiprasong Camp, Ubon Ratchathani, senior Thai officials, including Lieutenant General Anuparp Sirimonthon and Vice-Minister Ras Chalichan, briefed the group on the extent of the damage. The Royal Thai Army accused Cambodian forces of using BM-21 rocket launchers and artillery against civilian areas, violating a ceasefire agreement brokered on July 28 in Malaysia. The briefing emphasized Thailand’s defensive actions and adherence to international law amidst escalating tensions.
Diplomatic Push for Transparency
Engaging Global Stakeholders
The delegation, comprising ambassadors from Brunei, Japan, and Myanmar, and military attachés from nations like the United States, China, and Germany, also visited a temporary shelter in Kantharalak housing displaced residents. Government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub, noting the group’s arrival in Ubon Ratchathani by 9:25 am, stressed Thailand’s openness, stating the visit allowed global observers to assess the situation firsthand. This initiative counters Cambodian disinformation and supports Thailand’s call for bilateral dialogue to resolve the century-old border dispute.
