Brickinfo English
Thai Government Labels Cambodian Attacks as War Crimes, Vows Self-Defense
Brickinfo News Agency – The Thai government has accused Cambodia of committing war crimes following recent border clashes, citing unprovoked attacks that resulted in civilian casualties and damage to medical facilities. Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai addressed the nation from Government House, stating that Thailand has exercised restraint and pursued peaceful resolutions under international law. However, he expressed disappointment over Cambodia’s decision to initiate military action.
Cambodia’s alleged indiscriminate attacks extended more than 20 kilometers beyond the border, causing significant damage and leading to the deaths of 13 civilians, including children and the elderly. The Thai government has condemned these actions as war crimes and has provided the international community with the facts of the situation. Thailand asserts its actions are solely for self-defense in accordance with international regulations and has urged other nations to denounce Cambodia’s conduct.
Deputy Prime Minister Wechayachai emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens. “We confirm that the government, military, and all state agencies have not been idle since the first shot was fired [from the Cambodian side],” he stated.
“The Thai military has retaliated by limiting its targets to Cambodian military objectives, based on the principle of self-defense under international law, destroying Cambodian military strongholds.”
In response to the escalating situation, the Deputy Prime Minister has assigned ministers to visit four affected provinces tomorrow. Ms. Jiraporn Sinthuprai, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, will visit Surin; Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, will go to Buriram; Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, will travel to Sisaket; and Ms. Threerat Samrejvanich, Deputy Minister of Interior, will visit Ubon Ratchathani. The government is also providing compensation of up to 1,000,000 baht per person for both military personnel and civilians who have been injured or killed. Furthermore, special flights have been arranged with airlines to repatriate Thai citizens from Cambodia.
Wechayachai clarified the nature of the conflict, stating, “I want to emphasize that this incident is not a conflict at the civilian level, nor is it a declaration of war. Rather, it is a border clash to protect our sovereignty and retaliate against aggressors.”
His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen have also extended their gracious patronage, accepting all injured individuals as royal patients.
