Phnom Penh, September 8, 2025 — In a statement issued this evening through his social media channels, Cambodia's Senate President and former Prime Minister, Techo Hun Sen, sought to clarify recent circulating reports concerning regional security and political stability.

Over the past few days, two controversial reports have garnered attention. The first alleges that Japan has supplied drones to Thailand, while China has provided drones to Cambodia, and South Korea has sold ammunition and aircraft to Thailand. These reports suggest that such military support may be part of a broader effort by Thailand to prepare for operations targeting Techo Hun Sen and his son, Hun Manet. The second report claims that Thai leadership is allegedly planning to orchestrate an assassination against both Hun Sen and Hun Manet.

Recognizing the potential for these issues to escalate into larger conflicts if left unaddressed, Techo Hun Sen issued a firm response.

On Military Equipment and Regional Stability

He emphasized that the procurement of drones and military equipment by Cambodia or Thailand should not be exaggerated or misinterpreted as signs of impending conflict. "Regardless of where these countries acquire military equipment, the matter should not be extended into conflicts beyond bilateral issues," he stated. “Both Cambodia and Thailand are actively supporting efforts to end hostilities, advocating for ceasefires, and promoting regional peace.”

On Alleged Assassination Plots

Regarding the allegations of an assassination conspiracy, Techo Hun Sen expressed strong disbelief. "The notion that Thai leaders are planning to assassinate myself and Prime Minister Hun Manet is extremely difficult to accept," he asserted. “Even if disapproval exists at the leadership level, it is unthinkable that they would resort to such immoral actions.”

He pointed out that historically, targeted assassinations of powerful generals have occurred in warfare; however, the present era favors dialogue and mutual understanding over conflict. "Cambodia needs a strong Thai leader capable of engaging in peace negotiations, just as Thailand requires a capable Cambodian leader. Currently, only Hun Sen and Hun Manet possess the authority and capacity to lead these efforts, with Hun Manet leading direct negotiations."

On the Rationale Behind the Allegations

Techo Hun Sen strongly rejected the idea that Thai leaders would consider such extreme measures. "If either of us were truly killed by Thai leadership, it would provoke a surge of support for us in Cambodia, transforming Thailand into an enemy that cannot be appeased," he warned. "We are resilient leaders, and such claims serve only to destabilize regional peace."

Regarding Military Aircraft and International Support

He also addressed concerns about reports involving military aircraft, urging strict enforcement of agreements related to their use. Cambodia has previously observed Thai aircraft intruding into its territory, utilizing aircraft purchased from the United States and Sweden. While Cambodia does not oppose Thailand's military acquisitions, it urges that such aircraft not be used for airstrikes into Cambodian or neighboring countries' territories, including Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar.

Techo Hun Sen reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to regional stability and peaceful resolution of conflicts. He called on regional partners and international allies to ensure that military support is used responsibly and that misinformation does not undermine ongoing peace efforts.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CvCrfiZp1/