Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Phumtham Wechayachai, serving as the acting Prime Minister, addressed accusations made by the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia during the Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting. Cambodia accused Thailand of violating a ceasefire agreement and using chemical weapons. Phumtham questioned whether the Ministry of Foreign Affairs needed to clarify these accusations and revealed that the Ministry had prepared a protest. He emphasized that the Cambodian claims, reportedly supported by photographs, were baseless and confirmed that Thailand’s actions targeted military objectives, not civilians.

According to Thai News Agency, Phumtham dismissed concerns about the timeliness of Thailand’s international clarifications, asserting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had consistently submitted reports. He acknowledged, however, the need to improve public relations. He explained that the Special Operations Center for the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Administration (SOCSA) would be the primary source for information, in coordination with the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT).

Phumtham addressed how the government plans to proceed given Cambodia’s apparent disregard for international agreements. He stated, “It’s good. It’s clear and the world is aware of it, as it’s already happening,” affirming that the international community has been informed and is aware of the situation.

Regarding recent protests against Malaysia, the United States, and China, Phumtham stated that the government was doing its best and that those countries would be involved appropriately based on their situations. He noted that involvement from a third country was merely an expression of concern and emphasized the importance of bilateral negotiations to condemn the violation of the agreement.

Phumtham also responded to inquiries about international military observations in the border area, confirming that the Royal Thai Army had invited international military attaches to observe the situation, ensuring that all parties involved are fulfilling their duties.