Thailand and Cambodia call on people to unite

The atmosphere of confrontation is spreading, bringing with it warnings and calls for unity from both sides.

“Cambodia has always been steadfast in the principle of resolving disputes by peaceful means. But in this situation, we have no choice but to respond with force against armed acts,” Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Photo: Khmer Times

Mr. Hun Manet emphasized that the government, ministries, local authorities and especially the Cambodian armed forces are acting resolutely to protect sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests, not only on the battlefield but also through parallel diplomatic efforts.

Meanwhile, President of the Cambodian Senate, Mr. Hun Sen, also sent a message to reassure people, calling for calm and avoiding panic that could cause social and economic disruption.

“Do not hoard rice, do not hoard goods or raise prices of essential goods,” Mr. Hun Sen wrote on his personal Facebook page this morning.

“Please continue to live and work normally everywhere, except in the border areas in Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces where fighting is taking place. Please have faith in the Royal Government and our armed forces,” Mr. Hun Sen called on the people.

This is considered the most serious escalation on the Thai-Cambodian border in more than a decade. The situation is still evolving rapidly and complicatedly.

From the Thai side, military spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree said on July 24 that “Thailand has no choice but to respond to the actions from Cambodia — something we have tried to avoid for a long time.”

According to Mr. Winthai, Cambodia has "pushed Thailand into a corner", forcing the country to use military measures to protect its interests and national security. This statement was made after fierce fighting broke out at the border, ending months of escalating tensions between the two countries.

Mr Winthai also confirmed that Thailand has activated Operation Chakraphong Phuvanaat – an updated comprehensive defence plan to respond flexibly to current threats. This plan was deployed during the confrontation in the Preah Vihear area and has now been adjusted to enhance counter-attack capabilities in line with the new situation.

Major General Winthai affirmed that Thailand always complies with international laws and standards, but at the same time warned that "Cambodia is the one pushing the situation to the limit". Mr. Winthai left open the possibility that Thailand will take unprecedented actions, even within the framework of international cooperation.

“From now on, we may be forced to do things that we have always tried to avoid. In the current situation, all scenarios are possible,” Mr. Winthai warned.

The Thai military spokesman also called on the country's people to unite and support the military, especially units stationed on the front lines.

“Under increasing pressure, the Thai military is still acting within the framework of international law. Please have confidence in the fighting capacity and service spirit of our armed forces,” he said.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/thai-lan-va-cambodia-cung-keu-goi-nhan-dan-doan-ket-post1557074.html