Bangkok: “Natthapol” announced that the National Security Council (NSC) has authorized the military to operate based on the current situation, suspending any further negotiations.

According to Thai News Agency, following a meeting lasting over three hours, Defense Minister General Nattapol Nakphanit disclosed that the discussions focused on three primary concerns. The decision was made to temporarily halt the implementation of the Joint Declaration of Peace due to the loss of Thai military personnel from landmines within Thai territory. Additionally, there will be a temporary suspension on the transfer of Cambodian prisoners of war.

General Natthapol emphasized that both the government and the military are committed to defending Thailand’s sovereignty with utmost resolve. He confirmed that soldiers in the affected areas have been authorized to act under the Rules of Enforcement (ROE) as sanctioned by the NSC. The Thai military will persist in its mine-clearing operations across five designated areas, four of which have been completed, while one area awaits Cambodia’s response.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow reported that Cambodia breached the Joint Declaration, which Thailand is a signatory to, prompting Thailand to suspend all joint operations. Despite this, Thailand will continue unilateral missions, such as mine clearance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has lodged a formal protest with the Cambodian government and informed the Ottawa Convention and witness countries to bolster Thailand’s position internationally.

The suspension of heavy weapon withdrawals by both nations has been announced, with further negotiations set to occur solely at the international level.