Cambodia Seeks ICJ Ruling Over Border Dispute With Thailand Amid Rising Tensions

Cambodia has decided to seek a resolution to its escalating border dispute with Thailand near the Ta Muen Thom temple by filing a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), aiming to prevent the conflict from becoming a protracted and violent standoff. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that Cambodia will proceed with the ICJ complaint regardless of Thailand's agreement, in an effort to definitively settle the issue and avoid further provocations from extremist groups on both sides. The Cambodian government has urged Thailand to cooperate in bringing the matter before the ICJ in a spirit of fairness, while continuing peaceful border demarcation efforts through the Joint Boundary Committee (JBC). Despite Thailand's preference for direct negotiations and rejection of the ICJ option, Cambodia remains resolute, with Hun Manet and former Prime Minister Hun Sen both supporting the legal approach. Cambodia also demanded that Thailand investigate a recent shooting that killed a Cambodian soldier, describing it as a serious and illegal act. While maintaining a commitment to peaceful resolution, Cambodia has stated it reserves the right to defend its territorial integrity by all means, including military action if necessary.