Eat Sophea, Cambodia’s permanent representative to the UN, addresses the 10th emergency special session on October 27. CAMBODIA MISSION TO THE UN
The Cambodian Permanent Mission to the UN Office in Geneva has declined to endorse a collective statement concerning the Israel-Hamas war, while condemning the violence that has led to the loss of thousands of innocent lives.
Eat Sophea, Cambodia’s permanent representative to the UN, took part in the 10th emergency special session addressing Illegal Israeli actions in occupied East Jerusalem and other parts of the occupied Palestinian territory on October 27.
During the session, she conveyed the Kingdom’s condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives.
She emphasised that the conflict is intricate and sensitive, and that the country wishes to express its own principled position rather than aligning with a collective statement.
“Cambodia condemns all acts of terrorism and violence against innocent civilians, irrespective of their race, culture or religion. We are profoundly concerned by the rising violence, the continued anguish and the loss of innocent lives – from women and the elderly to children and infants,” she stated.
She further expressed the government’s distress over the increasing civilian casualties.
Cambodia urges all involved parties to show restraint, respect international humanitarian law and engage in constructive dialogue. The aim is to de-escalate the worsening situation and broker a ceasefire or humanitarian pause.
She also appealed for the release of all civilians taken hostage, and stressed the importance of protecting civilian infrastructure. She called for unobstructed humanitarian access to deliver crucial aid like food, water and medicines.
Sophea also urged the international community to unite with genuine sincerity and solidarity, fostering dialogue and negotiations to establish an enduring peace.
Kin Phea, director of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, backed the country’s decision not to join the statement.
“Cambodia has adopted a balanced approach to the conflict. [It] has persisted for a long time, and the international community needs a better solution. Cambodia’s stance is unbiased, urging both sides towards a peaceful resolution,” he said.
Thong Mengdavid, a research fellow at the Asian Vision Institute’s Mekong Centre for Strategic Studies, stressed the importance of the country maintaining its neutral position.
He said that, considering Cambodia’s religious and political interests, neutrality is paramount, especially with a Muslim population in the thousands.
“Given our history, Cambodia understands the devastating effects of war. We are ready to participate in UN humanitarian operations, possibly sending supplies or medical aid to Gaza. However, our immediate priority is ensuring the safety of Cambodian students in Israel by collaborating with the Israeli government,” he said.
The UN, with 193 members, has passed a non-binding resolution calling for a “durable and sustained humanitarian truce” with 120 votes in favour, 14 against and 45 abstentions.
