AKP Phnom Penh, August 04, 2025 -- The Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) led by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has vowed to do its best to ensure the safe and prompt return of 18 Cambodian soldiers currently held in Thai custody.

“Despite the evolving situation, the RGC continues to closely monitor the condition and safety of the 18 Cambodian military personnel detained by Thai authorities since July 29, 2025, and is taking all necessary measures through various mechanisms to secure their earliest and safe release,” the Premier stated in a social media post this afternoon.

To this end, the Ministry of National Defence, along with the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) and commanders of the relevant military regions, have been in direct communication with their Thai counterparts. Cambodia has also requested Malaysia, in its capacity as ASEAN Chair, to engage with Thai authorities to help resolve the issue.

Additionally, the Royal Government has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, through the Permanent Mission of Cambodia to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva, to coordinate with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in advocating for the soldiers' immediate release.

Simultaneously, the Cambodian Human Rights Committee has been tasked with engaging the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), and the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand to further accelerate the safe return of the captured soldiers.

By C. Nika