(Phnom Penh): A commentary published by Thailand's Khaosod on Friday (Jul. 3) criticized some Cambodian social media users for mocking an incident in which a vehicle struck Thai monks during a religious pilgrimage, describing the reactions as evidence of hatred and discrimination.

Before making such conclusions, Thai journalists should examine the deeper historical and political context behind these reactions.

Despite a long history of conflict and grievances between the two neighboring countries, Cambodia has never encouraged ethnic hatred toward Thai people. During the 2025 border tensions, Cambodian leaders, including Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, repeatedly urged citizens not to discriminate against Thais.

By contrast, following the border conflict, some Cambodians living in Thailand reportedly faced violence and discrimination, including children of Cambodian mothers who were expelled from schools.

Mocking tragic incidents on social media is regrettable, but it is not unique to Cambodia. Thai users have also made similar comments during tragedies in Cambodia.

Cambodians have consistently shown sympathy during major disasters in Thailand, including the March 2025 earthquake. However, the 2025 border conflict, which Cambodia says violated its sovereignty and territorial integrity, resulted in deaths, injuries, destroyed homes, and the continued occupation of Cambodian land, leaving thousands of families unable to return to their homes.

These events have deeply affected public sentiment.

Cambodians remain a peace-loving people guided by Buddhist values of compassion and kindness. The views expressed in the Khaosod commentary do not reflect the true character of the Cambodian people.

Ultimately, Thai journalists should also recognize a fundamental reality: no nation can reasonably be expected to maintain goodwill toward another that commits territorial aggression or unlawfully occupies its land.
=FRESH NEWS