Bangkok: Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed on Monday that the government is fully committed to defending national sovereignty and ensuring public safety as border clashes with Cambodia escalate.

According to Thai News Agency, in a televised address, the Prime Minister stated the fighting has occurred in multiple border areas since December 7. Anutin stressed that Thailand was not the initiator or the aggressor in the conflict but confirmed the National Security Council (NSC) has authorized the military to undertake necessary operations to protect territorial integrity.

“The government confirms that Thailand will maintain the highest commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, in accordance with international law and the right to legitimate self-defense,” Anutin stated.

He confirmed that all agencies have been ordered to provide comprehensive care for the thousands of evacuated residents.