Bangkok: The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces has activated the “Chakraphong Phuwanat” plan as tensions escalate along the Thai-Cambodian border. This move places the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army in charge of overseeing the command, utilizing land forces and requesting air and naval support to manage the situation.

According to Thai News Agency, Major General Witai Laithomya, a spokesman for the Thai Army, disclosed that the situation at the border has deteriorated, with Cambodian troops resorting to gunfire in multiple regions, leading to casualties. The Defense Ministry Organization Act of 2008, Section 39, grants the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces the authority to lead the Military Command Center. Under this provision, the “Chakraphong Phuwanat” plan has been enacted as part of the Eastern National Defense Plan, allowing for comprehensive military response measures.

The military operation is divided into two stages: normal and operational. Currently, operations have advanced to the operational stage, employing fire support from the 2nd Army Area and air support from the Air Force, targeting Cambodian military bases to quell the hostilities. The focus remains on avoiding civilian casualties, but a more aggressive stance may be considered if the violence persists.

The Royal Thai Army has condemned the Cambodian military’s actions and the government’s apparent intent to engage in armed conflict, disregarding civilian safety. The Thai Army has assured the public of its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and security, pledging to keep the public informed of any developments in the situation.