Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army, in collaboration with the 2nd Army Region, facilitated a visit from the International Red Cross to inspect the conditions of 18 prisoners of war detained by Cambodian soldiers in Thailand. This visit was conducted in adherence to the Geneva Convention.

According to Thai News Agency, Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari addressed Cambodia’s demands for the return of its prisoners of war, suggesting that these demands are part of a larger agenda to undermine Thailand’s international credibility. Suvari asserted that Thailand has consistently acted in compliance with international law, maintaining transparency and integrity.

The Thai authorities justified the detention of Cambodian POWs, citing adherence to international law and the Geneva Conventions, ensuring their treatment met established standards. Historically, Thailand has repatriated Cambodian soldiers respectfully, adhering to international protocols. In a recent gesture on August 1st, Thailand returned two injured and mentally unstable Cambodian soldiers after providing necessary medical care.

The Cambodian government, however, lodged a complaint with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, prompting the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to issue a protest. Thailand questioned Cambodia’s handling of its fallen soldiers, urging respect for human dignity and adherence to humanitarian principles.

Despite tensions, the Thai Army invited the International Committee of the Red Cross to verify the POWs’ living conditions and treatment, reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to international law and transparency. This initiative aims to counter accusations from the Cambodian side and demonstrate Thailand’s compliance with humanitarian standards.