Bangkok: The Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters has confirmed that Cambodia initiated an attack by opening fire first, targeting civilian areas with heavy weaponry. This aggressive action resulted in the death of one villager and injuries to several others, including a five-year-old child. The Thai military responded promptly, with diplomatic measures also being put in place.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Armed Forces Command reported that Cambodian soldiers provoked the conflict by using drones to fly into Thai territory, followed by an attack on Thai soldiers. Cambodia further escalated the situation by employing 122 mm multi-barrel rockets (BM 21) against Thai civilians in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province. The shelling led to significant casualties, including the death of a civilian and serious injuries to a child and other family members. In response, Thai security forces evacuated residents to safety, while seven Thai soldiers were reported injured.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) received updates indicating that the Thai military has been actively defending the nation’s sovereignty. The NBTC has empowered the forward army to make real-time decisions. Consequently, border checkpoints have been closed since 8 am following the incident.
Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office and NCPO committee, disclosed that acting Prime Minister Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai has directed relevant parties to engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. This includes recalling the Thai ambassador from Cambodia and sending the Cambodian ambassador back to his country.
In response to protests from various organizations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with investigating the provocations and violations by Cambodia over the past seven months. This involves gathering evidence of recent incidents, such as the planting of new landmines and the resulting injuries to Thai soldiers. The findings are expected to guide Thailand’s strategic response to the ongoing conflict.