Military Empowered to Handle Thai-Cambodian Border Crisis
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stressed that talks with Cambodia will only begin once Cambodian troops, weapons, and explosives are withdrawn from the border.
While formal dialogue is not yet scheduled, safeguarding Thailand’s sovereignty remains the top priority. The National Security Council has delegated decision-making authority to the military. Under martial law, the Commander of the Second Army Area has full operational control. A smooth transition of command is expected at the end of September, supported by newly appointed Deputy Defense Minister Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthumjaroen, a former Second Army Commander familiar with the terrain.
Thailand’s position remains unchanged: no dialogue until Cambodia complies, checkpoints stay closed, and stronger measures may follow—including suspending public utilities—if aggression persists. The Prime Minister reiterated that Thailand will not cede land or compromise its national interests, vowing to respond firmly to Cambodia’s deployment of heavy arms and drone incursions.
Despite Thailand’s adherence to prior agreements, Cambodia has failed to honor commitments from the latest General Border Committee (GBC) meeting. This, officials say, makes a strong case for third-party mediators to press Cambodia to comply.
Meanwhile, authorities are preparing evacuation shelters and financial compensation plans to support affected communities, ensuring readiness should the conflict escalate.
Source: https://thailand.prd.go.th/en/content/category/detail/id/3243/iid/426934
