NOCC Withdraws Entire Sporting Delegation from 33rd SEA Games Due to Safety Concerns
The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) has decided to withdraw its entire sporting delegation from the 33rd SEA Games due to safety concerns arising from escalating border clashes with Thailand. In a statement to the CEO of the SEA Games Federation, the committee's secretary-general expressed regret over the decision, citing the families of the athletes requesting their immediate return to Cambodia for safety reasons. The NOCC emphasized that the withdrawal was necessary for the well-being of their delegation and apologized for any inconvenience caused.
The decision to pull out of the SEA Games comes in the wake of Thailand launching airstrikes on Cambodia, leading to renewed fighting along their disputed border. The clashes resulted in casualties on both sides, with six Cambodian civilians and a Thai soldier reported dead. The death toll increased to 10 the following day, and the conflict has forced over 140,000 civilians to flee their homes in both countries. Despite the ongoing hostilities, the SEA Games commenced on Tuesday and are scheduled to conclude on Dec 20.
As the situation continues to evolve, the NOCC's withdrawal from the SEA Games underscores the priority placed on the safety and well-being of their athletes and delegation members. The decision reflects the committee's commitment to ensuring the security of its participants in light of the escalating tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.