Phnom penh: In an opinion piece published on 3 September, concerns were raised about the escalating conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, warning that the situation was not a mere border dispute but an aggressive act by Thailand against Cambodia. The fears of a potential escalation have been realized, as Thailand launched a significant military invasion into Cambodia on 8 December, involving coordinated attacks by the Thai army, navy, and air force across all seven Cambodian border provinces. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the military operation, which persisted until a new ceasefire was signed on 27 December, saw Thailand employing its military prowess, including F-16 fighter jets, bombers, and cluster munitions, in Cambodian territory. The disparity in military strength is stark, with Thailand's defense budget and active military personnel significantly outnumbering Cambodia's. Thailand's air force, boasting 106 combat-ready aircraft, stands in stark contrast to Cambodia's lack of fighter jets. T he ongoing conflict underscores the shift in global dynamics, where international law is increasingly overshadowed by military might. Cambodia's reliance on international mediation has yet to yield favorable results, with recent ASEAN meetings failing to provide the necessary diplomatic leadership to resolve the crisis. Notably, China's passive stance has only recently shifted following successful trilateral talks. Despite a ceasefire, tensions remain high, with Thailand's occupation of Cambodian territory complicating future negotiations. The sale of Gripen aircraft to Thailand by Sweden has been criticized as a significant political misstep, given the extensive bombing raids conducted by Thai fighter planes deep within Cambodian borders. These air strikes targeted both military and civilian infrastructure, raising international concerns, particularly regarding attacks on cultural heritage sites and civilian areas. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has highlighted the potential civilian toll, includ ing victims of trafficking, amidst the bombings. Further complicating matters, Sweden's Linköping-based Evolved Systems Scandinavia AB is set to supply drones to Thailand, enhancing the country's military capabilities. Although these drones are not classified as military equipment, their potential use in defense scenarios raises questions about Sweden's role in the ongoing conflict. The sale of Gripen aircraft and drones to Thailand positions Sweden as a key enabler of Thailand's military operations against Cambodia. Calls are mounting for Sweden to cancel its agreements with Thailand, including the sale of additional Gripen aircraft scheduled for delivery by 2029. Sweden is urged to leverage its position within the EU to advocate for a diplomatic resolution, supporting Cambodia's efforts to address the border dispute through international law. The parallels drawn between Thailand's territorial ambitions and Russia's strategy in Ukraine emphasize the urgency for Sweden to uphold international law and count eract the emerging global order dominated by force. Sweden's actions moving forward could signal its commitment to peace and stability in the region.