BANGKOK — Cambodia’s Senate President Hun Sen has issued a stark warning that Cambodian authorities will arrest Thai leaders deemed responsible for territorial incursions and civilian deaths, intensifying a diplomatic crisis sparked by recent border clashes. The threat came hours after Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced plans to pursue legal action against Hun Sen and his son, Prime Minister Hun Manet, for their alleged roles in fatal attacks on Thai soil.

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In a fiery Facebook post on Thursday, Hun Sen condemned Phumtham’s move as “reckless” and accused the Thai leader of ignorance regarding international law and diplomatic norms. “If Thailand is in a position to arrest Cambodian leaders, then Cambodia could likewise arrest certain Thai leaders who have invaded and killed Cambodian citizens,” he wrote.

The exchange marks a significant escalation following weeks of border tensions that forced tens of thousands of Thai civilians to evacuate from provinces including Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, and Ubon Ratchathani. Phumtham confirmed Wednesday that Thailand would file criminal and civil suits against the Cambodian leaders, authorizing immediate arrest if either enters Thailand.

Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen posted on Facebook late Monday night that Cambodia can arrest Thai leaders too after Thai acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai threatens to arrest both Hun Sen and his son Cambodian Hun Manet.
Read Hun Sen's full statement on his Facebook here:
—… pic.twitter.com/KXSrEQ6iCh

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) August 19, 2025

Hun Sen questioned whether Thailand’s actions aimed to build trust or provoke renewed conflict despite a recent ceasefire. He also mocked Phumtham’s temporary status as acting premier, noting his term would soon end. Phumtham assumed the role after the Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra over leaked conversations with Hun Sen regarding border hostilities.

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Thailand’s Provincial Police Region 3 has been tasked with collecting evidence and complaints from affected citizens, focusing on legal proceedings within domestic courts rather than international tribunals. The situation remains volatile, with both nations mobilizing legal and diplomatic resources in a dispute that threatens to undermine regional stability.

-Thailand News (TN)