Thai Army: All's Fair in Defense
Thai Military Affirms Non-Initiation of Border Skirmish, Justifies Actions as Self-Defense
In a turn of events, the Royal Thai Army has denied Cambodia's allegations that Thai troops initiated the border clash at Chong Bok, insisting their moves were a defensive response to an armed incursion. Last month's skirmish, according to the Army, was a self-defense act.
The Army Spokesperson, Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, made these remarks in response to Cambodia's statement on June 4 regarding the border dispute. Winthai emphasized that Thai forces adhered strictly to the rules of engagement and have been trained to act with restraint and discipline.
Intelligence gathered by Thai forces suggested that armed Cambodian soldiers had crossed into Thai territory and set up positions. A small Thai patrol was dispatched to investigate, but they were met with gunfire, leading to a firefight. Previously, these tensions had been addressed through proper diplomatic channels.
Winthai also noted that Thailand has persistently sought to resolve such border disputes through military-to-military dialogue, a strategy agreed upon by both nations. However, he pointed out that the Cambodian side had shown a lack of cooperative spirit in recent interactions.
Moreover, the Army has heightened its readiness to respond if necessary, as intelligence reports indicate intensified military preparations by Cambodia accompanied by ambiguous diplomatic signaling, which the Army views as a cause for concern.
In light of the situation, the Army Commander-in-Chief has ordered all units to maintain a high level of operational preparedness in accordance with national defense plans, ready to act if diplomatic efforts fail to resolve the issue.
"The Army operates with utmost care when dealing with border issues, aiming to prevent unnecessary losses. However, we remain prepared to protect our national sovereignty if necessary," Winthai concluded.
TAGS* Thai Army* self-defense* Thailand* Cambodia* Chong Bok
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- In a statement, the Thai military expressed concerns over Cambodia's increased military preparations and ambiguous diplomatic signaling, threatening the stability of the border region.
- The ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has illuminated the intensity of their political relationships, with disputes in business, finance, and general news also impacting the tensions.
- As war-and-conflicts loom, the Thai military is vigilant, working to protect the nation's commercial interests, including the economy, as well as ensuring the safety of its citizens and territory.
- The ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has also highlighted the importance of strong diplomatic relations, with both sides struggling to find a peaceful resolution, and the possibility of crime-and-justice implications should the situation escalate.
- In times of crisis, the Thai military takes a firm but measured stance, focusing on self-defense while maintaining open lines of communication to avoid any unnecessary escalation in the ongoing border skirmishes with Cambodia.
