BANGKOK – The Japanese Embassy in Cambodia has firmly refuted viral rumors claiming Tokyo plans to provide combat drones to Thailand, dismissing the reports as entirely baseless. In an official statement posted on its Facebook page, the embassy clarified that no such military transfer has been planned or requested.

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“The government of Japan has never planned to provide such equipment to Thailand, nor has it received such a request,” the embassy emphasized. The statement reiterated Japan’s policy of limiting assistance to non-conflict-related areas and urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation.

The clarification follows unverified social media speculation that surfaced amid heightened tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Japan also reaffirmed its support for the ceasefire agreement between the two Southeast Asian nations, expressing hope for a swift return to peace. “We sincerely hope that the people of Cambodia can return to a peaceful daily life as soon as possible,” the embassy added.

According to the statement, the Embassy of Japan has learned that there are rumors or information that Government of Japan will provide combat drones to Thailand. #Thailand #Cambodia #falseclaims #ThailandNews #TheNationhttps://t.co/QEQ04YZMsv

— Thenationthailand (@Thenationth) August 6, 2025

While the origin of the false claims remains unclear, the denial comes after a June 21 report by Kyodo News detailing Japan’s plans to supply defense equipment—including drones—to Thailand, Tonga, and six other nations this fiscal year. According to the report, the equipment is intended for humanitarian and maritime surveillance purposes, particularly in safeguarding Indo-Pacific sea lanes amid China’s growing military presence.

Japanese officials stressed that any drone transfers would be strictly for disaster response and coastal monitoring, not combat operations. The incident highlights the delicate balance Tokyo maintains in regional security partnerships while adhering to its pacifist principles.

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Authorities are investigating the source of the misinformation as diplomatic efforts to stabilize Thai-Cambodian relations continue.

-Thailand News (TN)