Thai army leader foresees prolonged conflict at borders with Cambodia

Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, the Army Region 2 commander, has expressed concern over the ongoing border disputes between Thailand and Cambodia, calling for a permanent solution to prevent further conflicts. In a recent statement, Lt Gen Boonsin highlighted the fragility of peace, accusing Cambodia of violating the ceasefire by planting new landmines on Thai soil.

The Army Region 2 oversees the Thai-Cambodian frontier in Buri Ram, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, where heavy clashes occurred from July 24-28. Lt Gen Boonsin also advised that the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin should remain closed to Cambodian visitors due to clashes there triggering wider fighting.

The Army Region 2's call for a permanent barbed-wire fence along the border indicates a desire for increased security measures to prevent territorial disputes and cross-border crime. This call comes amidst allegations of Cambodia prioritising the military in its policy, a stance that Lt Gen Boonsin believes will never lead to permanent resolution of the conflicts.

The ongoing tension and mistrust between the two countries are evident in the statements made by Lt Gen Boonsin. He did not specify any individuals but was understood to be referring to Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, the leaders of Cambodia.

Senatorpräsident Hun Sen, the long-time ruler of Cambodia, has served as the country's president of the ruling party and leader from 1985 until 2023, holding de facto power through a kleptocratic regime while suppressing opposition and free speech. Premierminister Hun Manet, Hun Sen's son, succeeded him as Cambodia's prime minister in 2023, though Hun Sen is still widely believed to retain actual control behind the scenes in the context of the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.

Cambodia's decision to seek an International Court of Justice ruling on disputed land is seen as a proof of its military-first stance. Permanent peace between the two countries can only be achieved through talks between leaders of both countries and adopting more compromising positions.

As Lt Gen Boonsin retires at the end of September, the future of the Thai-Cambodian border disputes remains uncertain. However, the need for dialogue and mutual understanding is clear, as the ongoing conflicts pose a threat to the peace and stability of the region.