Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army has confirmed plans to invite international visitors to witness the aftermath of a recent conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border, specifically in the Chong An Ma area of Ubon Ratchathani Province. This initiative follows similar steps taken by Cambodia to highlight the impact of the clashes.

According to Thai News Agency, Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari, an army spokesman, addressed concerns regarding the Cambodian delegation’s visit to the conflict zone, where both sides had engaged in combat. The site displayed damage from the use of weapons by both nations, a scenario deemed typical in military operations within such a tactical area.

Thailand intends to conduct its own tours for international visitors, focusing on transparent and substantive communication rather than superficial presentations. The primary objective is to shed light on the damage inflicted on civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, and hospitals, which Thailand claims were deliberately targeted by Cambodian forces. These areas are situated well within Thai territory, at a distance of 10-30 kilometers from the conflict zone, resulting in civilian casualties and injuries.

Maj. Gen. Winthai emphasized that these actions constitute a breach of Thailand’s sovereignty and contravene international military codes and humanitarian principles. He highlighted that the attacks violate several international conventions that explicitly forbid targeting non-combat areas.

The Royal Thai Army maintains that its military actions are focused on legitimate military targets and adhere to international regulations. The army reiterated that Thailand’s primary goal is to defend its citizens and territory, asserting that it has not engaged in any acts of invasion against neighboring nations.