Cambodian Actions Violating Geneva Conventions & Intl. Humanitarian Law
Cambodia’s actions in Thai-Cambodian border clashes violate the Geneva Conventions and IHL, including using historical sites as military bases and involving civilians
The 2nd Army has highlighted three key behaviors by Cambodia that clearly violate the Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) amid the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border clashes.
Since the border conflict began on December 7, 2025, and has continued for 13 days, the 2nd Army has released details of Cambodia’s military actions that breach IHL. The investigation, including video footage and photographs, revealed several violations:
- Use of Historical Sites as Military Bases: Cambodia has been using historical sites as military positions, which is prohibited under IHL.
- Involvement of Civilians in Military Operations: Cambodian forces have involved civilians, including women and children, in military operations, such as assembling ammunition and explosives in military bases within historical sites like Prasat Ta Kwai.
- Endangering Civilians by Bringing Them into Combat Zones: Cambodia has placed civilians in combat zones, using them to support military operations directly and indirectly. This includes operating machine guns, assembling explosives, and providing food supplies to soldiers in combat areas.
The Geneva Conventions are international laws that set rules for war, aiming to protect those not involved in the fighting, including civilians, prisoners of war, and medical staff. The primary goal is to reduce human suffering and safeguard life and dignity.
International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is a broader legal framework that encompasses the Geneva Conventions and the Hague Conventions, regulating both the conduct of hostilities and the protection of people affected by armed conflicts.
IHL principles include distinguishing between military and civilian targets, using force proportionately, and avoiding unnecessary suffering.
The 2nd Army emphasizes that Cambodia’s actions constitute violations of both the Geneva Conventions and IHL, contrary to international humanitarian principles, which state that even in wartime, humanitarian laws must be upheld.
