Bangkok: General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense and Director of the Center for Special Operations in the Administration of the Situation on the Thai-Cambodian Border, confirmed that Cambodian soldiers initiated gunfire first in a recent clash at Ta Muen Thom Temple in Ubon Ratchathani Province. He is preparing to discuss with the National Security Council to grant legitimacy to the Thai army to exercise power, while reiterating that a state of emergency has not been declared.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nattapol stated that previous attempts to resolve the issue through bilateral negotiations with Cambodia had failed. He noted that both sides should consider withdrawing troops from the border area to prevent further conflict. Despite his experience that Cambodian soldiers can be undisciplined and provocative, commanding officers have committed to a peaceful approach. Following yesterday’s incident, General Nattapol authorized the commander-in-chief to implement strategies under the Defense Ministry Organization Act of 1996, and the commander of the Second Army has requested to lay barbed wire in the area where the Cambodian base has encroached.
General Nattapol stated that there has been no declaration of a state of emergency at this time, and the Royal Thai Army Command will proceed according to the law as per the Defense Ministry Organization Act, Section 39. Discussions are set to continue among the commanders of the armed forces. He emphasized the importance of discussing strategies before any further actions. The Supreme Commander plans to meet with the armed forces’ commanders to deliberate on the situation.
Addressing the public, General Nattapol assured Thai citizens of the army’s commitment to protecting sovereignty and expressed regret over the impact on border residents. He acknowledged the patience shown by the Thai army and urged citizens to support the personnel stationed along the border, particularly the Second Army. No reports of clashes from other areas have been received, and General Nattapol requested that the media refrain from questioning soldiers during operations to avoid informing the Cambodian side of ongoing activities.
Regarding additional measures in border provinces such as Chanthaburi, Sa Kaeo, and Trat, General Nattapol announced that the entire border will be closed. He confirmed that the army has been granted authority to operate, which will be acknowledged and approved in the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) meeting. Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, will attend the National Security Council (NSC) meeting with the commanders of the armed forces to discuss the situation further.
In response to potential protests to the United Nations, General Nattapol emphasized the importance of adhering to principles and morality, rejecting insincere actions. He assured the public that efforts are being made to prevent escalation, but affirmed the army’s readiness to act if sovereignty is threatened. The situation will be managed according to legal processes, prioritizing national interests.