Bangkok: General Nattapol has directed the Royal Thai Army to invite foreign military attaches to witness the impact suffered by civilians due to actions by Cambodia. He confirmed impending protests and stressed the need for international attention on any ceasefire violations. He acknowledged that Cambodia’s narrative is expected, but assured that Thailand holds comprehensive evidence, including aerial images and technology, to support its negotiation efforts. He expressed the pressure faced and appealed to the media for public clarification.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Minister of Defense General Nattapol Nakphanit, before a Defense Council meeting, discussed the Thai Army’s coordination with foreign military attaches to visit the border area. He revealed plans to show them the civilian casualties caused by Cambodian military actions, an order given to the Royal Thai Army the previous night. Coordination with Malaysia to monitor the situation is also underway, though participating countries remain unspecified.
Cambodia’s border firing violations necessitate protests and international communication. The Royal Thai Army is tasked with bilingual communication, with all armed forces and the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Administration Center collaborating. Adherence to the ceasefire agreement’s principle, requiring all units to remain stationary until the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee meeting, is emphasized.
General Natthapol critiqued Cambodia’s consistent refusal to adhere to the ceasefire, warning that mimicking such behavior could harm Thailand’s global credibility. He stressed Thailand’s need to maintain maturity and development, urging media cooperation to prevent internal conflicts that benefit Cambodia. He lamented the domestic discord overshadowing the actual issue, as Cambodia capitalizes on Thailand’s internal strife, preventing Thailand from distorting facts.
The general highlighted the pressure of making decisions for the national interest, urging media support in conveying their importance to the public. He mentioned compiled evidence of Cambodia’s distortions, including aerial and satellite images, which remain undisclosed for strategic reasons but will be utilized when necessary to counter Cambodia’s claims.
Clarifying public understanding is crucial, and the military’s role in fostering this comprehension is vital. The unconfirmed involvement of Russian mercenaries, depicted in images under investigation, was noted, though no official confirmation has been received.
General Nattapol outlined the government’s strategy for addressing Cambodia’s agreement violations, with the NCPO and agencies actively monitoring the situation. As Acting Minister of Defense, he maintains communication with military commanders and engages in discussions to clarify procedures, including those discussed with Malaysia.
The resolution of the situation hinges on Cambodia’s actions, with Thailand committed to defense rather than offense. The Ministry of Defense’s procurement focuses on sovereignty protection, contrasting with Cambodia’s offensive weaponry. The situation’s duration depends on Cambodian actions.
The Defense Council meeting will address various matters, including the Thai-Cambodian situation, alongside routine business discussions, adapting to current circumstances as needed.