Recent tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated significantly, prompting strong reactions from the Thai government, including diplomatic protests and the consideration of severe legal actions. A notable incident involved a clear violation of the Ottawa Convention on landmines. This event transpired merely two days after the General Border Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur, where Cambodia had explicitly rejected Thailand’s proposal for a joint initiative to clear landmines along their shared border.

In response to these incidents, Thailand has initiated a robust diplomatic offensive. Thailand’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva has formally sent a letter to the chair of the Ottawa Convention, registering a protest against these violations. Concurrently, Thailand’s ambassador to the UN in New York held meetings with both the chair of the Ottawa Convention and the UN secretary-general, explicitly requesting action against Cambodia for its alleged breaches of the treaty.

Beyond the landmine issue, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced on Tuesday a significant development: the National Security Council (NSC) has resolved to pursue both criminal and civil lawsuits in Thai courts. These lawsuits are directed against Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father, Hun Sen. The allegations stem from orders given to Cambodian troops, which reportedly resulted in firing at Thai civilians, causing deaths and injuries to Thai nationals, as well as extensive damage to assets. The acting prime minister underscored the government's unwavering commitment to pursuing these legal avenues.

Furthermore, Phumtham stated that the government is open to considering a proposal from academics to sue Hun Manet and Hun Sen in the International Criminal Court (ICC) as alleged war criminals. Should such a proposal be officially submitted, he pledged to ensure that the government’s legal experts would conduct a thorough review. This multi-pronged approach highlights Thailand’s determination to address the gravity of these incidents and to hold all responsible parties accountable under both national and international legal frameworks, signaling a deepening diplomatic and legal dispute between the two neighboring nations.