Bangkok: Ramkhamhaeng University students descended upon the Ministry of Defense, seeking clarity and action regarding the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border tensions. They engaged directly with Deputy Minister of Defense, General Nattapol Nakphanit, who reassured them that the situation, while not immediately resolvable, was under careful consideration with a focus on balance and sovereignty.
According to Thai News Agency, the students delivered a letter to General Nattapol, urging expedited action on the border tensions without government interference. General Nattapol addressed the students, highlighting the complex nature of the issue which involves maintaining a delicate balance between the welfare of the people, businesses, and national sovereignty.
General Nattapol explained that the work of the Special Operations Center for the Administration of the Situation on the Thai-Cambodian Border (SOC) involves a careful weighing of interests. He emphasized that any actions taken must be backed by solid evidence, particularly concerning allegations of newly laid mines along the border which are attributed to Cambodia.
The General also expressed concerns about recent actions by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who had posted messages perceived as encouraging confrontation. General Nattapol noted that such actions could be seen as provocations that might escalate tensions. He assured that military officers from both sides are maintaining a presence at the contentious Ta Muen Thom Temple to manage the situation calmly and without arms.
Addressing the possibility of closing the temple to reduce tensions, General Nattapol stated that international rules would guide actions taken. He outlined a plan where, should tensions rise, Cambodian soldiers would be invited to de-escalate the situation and, if necessary, riot police would be deployed.
General Nattapol also addressed media and public perceptions, insisting that the Ministry of Defense operates independently and without fear of government manipulation. He expressed his commitment to his role and clarified that he was not seeking further political advancement, but was instead focused on resolving the current issues to the best of his ability.
In response to the detailed explanation provided by General Nattapol, the student representatives expressed increased confidence in the Defense Ministry’s handling of the situation. General Nattapol, however, reminded them that he is part of the government and works within a committee structure to ensure collective decision-making and transparency.