BANGKOK: The Royal Thai Army plans to show international diplomats the damage from Cambodia’s artillery attacks on Thai civilians, including homes, schools, and hospitals.
Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, on Wednesday (July 30) discussed the Cambodian military’s recent decision to allow foreign military attachés to inspect the area of the border clash at Chong An Ma area in Ubon Ratchathani.
He said the foreign delegation’s visit showcased the damage caused by the use of weapons from both sides, which is expected in such a military operational zone. However, the area remains a key military target.
"The Thai side also has plans to organise similar events. However, we won’t focus on creating misleading or superficial images," said Winthai.
"Our priority is to communicate the true damage to the international community, particularly the destruction of civilian infrastructure—homes, schools, and hospitals—that the Cambodian military deliberately targeted.
"This has led to significant civilian casualties, even though these areas are deeply inside Thai territory, some 10-30 kilometres from the actual combat zones."
He further condemned the Cambodian actions as a violation of Thailand’s sovereignty and contrary to international military law and humanitarian principles, particularly the breaches of multiple international conventions prohibiting attacks on non-combat areas.
The Royal Thai Army reiterated that its operations are solely focused on military targets, adhering strictly to international laws.
Winthai stressed that Thailand is not the aggressor, but it has a legitimate right to defend its citizens and territory. - The Nation/ANN
