Suspended Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has issued a strong condemnation of Cambodia, accusing the neighbouring country of initiating armed conflict along the Thai border. She expressed full support for all governmental, military, and diplomatic responses taken within the bounds of international law, according to the Bangkok Post. 

Posting on X (formerly Twitter) at 2:25 pm, Paetongtarn alleged that Cambodia had breached international legal standards and fundamental human rights by launching the first attack, including long-range strikes into Thai territory that affected both security personnel and civilians.

“I condemn Cambodia’s use of violence and its act of aggression along the border, where it was the Cambodian side that initiated hostilities by firing into Thai territory, endangering both officials and innocent citizens,” she wrote. “This action represents a clear violation of international norms, particularly those related to human rights and ethical conduct.”

As Thailand’s Minister of Culture, Paetongtarn highlighted the Thai government’s commitment to diplomacy and its efforts to avoid conflict through dialogue, patience, and restraint. She reiterated that peaceful resolution remains the preferred and appropriate course in dealing with international disputes.

Following security briefings, she affirmed her endorsement of the current response measures. “I fully support the actions taken by the government, the armed forces, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, so long as they remain within the legal frameworks recognised by the international community,” she stated.

Paetongtarn, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, also expressed hope that the conflict would be brought to an end quickly and that peace would be restored. She extended her moral support to Thai soldiers protecting the nation's borders and to civilians affected by the hostilities.

She urged the public to remain vigilant and adhere to official safety guidelines, stressing that protecting lives and property remains her utmost concern during this period of heightened tension.

Paetongtarn has been temporarily suspended from her role as Prime Minister pending a legal decision related to a leaked phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.