Bangkok: The Prime Minister has firmly addressed the escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, emphasizing the importance of protecting Thailand’s sovereignty and dismissing any prospects of negotiations with Cambodia. He urged Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to redirect his concerns towards Cambodia rather than Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister reiterated his confidence in the strength of the Thai military and assured the public that there would be no further incursions. He emphasized that Thailand would not succumb to external pressures and that the conditions set by Thailand must be adhered to by Cambodia. He also dismissed any concerns raised by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tariffs, maintaining that the focus should remain on national sovereignty.
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul have addressed concerns regarding Cambodia’s attacks targeting civilians instead of military zones, asserting that Thailand’s sovereignty remains intact. While military tactics and operations remain undisclosed, the Prime Minister stated the military’s commitment to preserving sovereignty and ensuring the safety of the Thai people.
The Prime Minister dismissed any possibility of negotiations with Cambodia, indicating that Thailand’s response to any aggression would serve as a demonstration of strength. He stated that if Cambodia seeks to halt the conflict, it must comply with Thailand’s directives. In response to the evacuation of people from border areas, Mr. Anutin has instructed provincial governors to ensure the highest possible care for those evacuated to shelters and to utilize the budgets allocated for high-risk areas effectively.
The Prime Minister addressed foreign media reports suggesting that Thailand initiated the conflict, asserting that Thailand has consistently proven itself as a peace-loving nation. He emphasized that Thailand has presented evidence and communicated with international organizations to clarify that it is not the aggressor.
Regarding the timeline for resolving the conflict, the Prime Minister stated that strategic details cannot be disclosed during ongoing hostilities and requested media cooperation in maintaining confidentiality on security matters.
In response to political parties’ potential actions during this situation, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his role as the leader responsible for upholding Thailand’s sovereignty and emphasized his commitment to protecting the country’s honor and safety.
The Prime Minister clarified that he has not communicated with U.S. President Donald Trump or Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim regarding the issue, as it is a bilateral matter between Thailand and Cambodia. He urged those expressing concern, including Anwar Ibrahim, to address their messages to the actual aggressors.
When asked about Cambodia’s claims that Thailand initiated the attack, the Prime Minister responded assertively, maintaining Thailand’s stance in the ongoing conflict.