The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia did not start from Thailand. It pointed out that "Tom Andrews" provided inaccurate information and emphasized readiness to restore relations if Cambodia shows sincerity.
On 1 August 2026 GMT+7, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement clarifying the case involving Mr. Tom Andrews, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, who released a concluding statement after his visit to Cambodia (20–31 July 2026) that referenced Thailand in several matters.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified seven key facts: 1. Regarding the cause of the conflict, Thailand acknowledged the statement but stressed that the conflict did not originate from Thailand; rather, it began with Cambodia attacking civilian targets inside Thai territory. 2. The reported figure of 650,000 displaced persons in Cambodia includes many who unlawfully settled in temporary shelters in Thailand since the late 1970s, despite Thailand's repeated protests and requests for their removal, which were ignored; thus, they do not meet the definition of internally displaced persons.
3. The Cambodian government must take responsibility for its own people. The right to return to one's homeland should not be used as a political tool or propaganda. Cambodia's government has a direct duty to care for and protect its citizens affected by humanitarian and public health crises. 4. The reported 900,000 Cambodian workers returning home did so voluntarily following Cambodia's own invitation. Thailand has never pursued policies to expel Cambodian workers and always prioritizes their welfare.
5. Thailand upholds human rights principles and has cooperated continuously with the United Nations Human Rights Council's special mechanisms for transparency and accountability. 6. Thailand calls on the UN special mechanisms to maintain neutrality, fairness, and thoroughly verify all parties' information before assessing the situation. 7. Thailand is ready to move forward to restore relations, provided Cambodia demonstrates sincerity by strictly adhering to the joint statement dated 27 December 2025, refraining from provocations, and paving the way for peaceful border dispute resolution through bilateral mechanisms.