Bangkok: The Prime Minister stated that the Cambodian mortar fire into the Chong Bok channel was an accident, but emphasized that Cambodia must take responsibility for the incident. He has given Cambodia time to explain the situation, while asserting that Thailand is prepared to respond appropriately. The Prime Minister confirmed that evacuation of local residents is not yet necessary and has instructed provincial governors to manage the situation closely.
According to Thai News Agency, before the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul convened a meeting with Minister of Defence General Natthaphol Nakpanich, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew, and National Security Council Secretary Chatchai Bangchawad at Government House. This meeting followed an incident where Thai soldiers were injured by mortar fire from the Cambodian side near Chong Yok Hill 469 in Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province.
Subsequently, Mr. Anutin and his team proceeded to the command building, where he announced that the government was fully aware of the situation. Relevant agencies have acted in accordance with established procedures as outlined in an agreement for responding to such incidents. The military and security forces have formally protested to their Cambodian counterparts and requested clarification regarding the incident. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also issued a letter to the Cambodian Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighting the violation of the ceasefire agreement and seeking further clarification. The Prime Minister emphasized that the mortar fire landed within Thai territory, and Thailand is prepared to retaliate or invoke the rules of engagement if necessary.
The Prime Minister stated that the details of the incident are under review by the military, which is considering the appropriate response. Discussions have occurred at the operational level at the border, where commanders from both sides have described the incident as accidental. Despite this, the determination of responsibility remains a key issue, and time is needed to process the situation. The Prime Minister assured that Thailand is fully prepared in all aspects, including foreign policy and security, to respond as necessary.
On the question of evacuating villagers, the Prime Minister confirmed that the situation remains under military control and discussions will continue at the operational level. With Cambodia asserting that the incident was accidental, local administrations and the Ministry of Interior have been tasked with monitoring the situation. Currently, evacuation is deemed unnecessary.
When asked about the possibility of a third clash, the Prime Minister described his statement as preliminary and assured that his team would continue to monitor the situation during the cabinet meeting, providing updates as more information becomes available.
Regarding the need for a National Security Council meeting, the NSC Secretary-General stated that there is currently no need for such a meeting.