Sihasak says Thai military ready to respond if Cambodia deliberately fires or provokes
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow says Thailand and Cambodia still have channels for talks after shots reportedly landed on the Thai side, but warns the Thai military will defend sovereignty if there is deliberate provocation.
Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said on Monday that there are still channels for dialogue over the Thailand-Cambodia border situation, after an incident on the evening of January 30 in which Cambodia allegedly fired rounds that crossed into Thai territory. He said the priority is to rebuild mutual trust, with discussions continuing at the local level.
He said incidents can sometimes stem from misunderstandings, but any developments that raise concern must be addressed through communication and fact-finding, noting that existing mechanisms are working.
However, he stressed the need for a durable ceasefire, with no clashes or provocations—either on the ground or through public statements. Trust, he said, must be rebuilt gradually, which would make the direction of restoring relations clearer.
Asked whether the public could be assured that no incident would occur between now and February 8, when Thailand is set to hold an election, Sihasak said Thailand must continue engaging with Cambodia to ensure there are no developments and that the ceasefire is genuinely sustainable.
On reports of sporadic gunfire and explosions, he said each incident must be explained and clarified. As long as it is not incitement or a deliberate intrusion, and both sides can talk and provide explanations, the situation can be managed through communication.
He added that Thailand is working with Cambodia to ensure the ceasefire holds and to prevent escalation, but said Thailand would still have to carry out its duty to protect its sovereignty if a deliberate incident occurs.
Sihasak said Thai authorities are monitoring movements on the Cambodian side, including reports of troop and weapons build-ups and trench digging. If there is any encroachment on Thai sovereignty, or any intentional action, Thailand would have to respond accordingly.
He also said he had already warned Cambodia to be careful with remarks that could be seen as interference, adding that Thailand has been trying to avoid such language in its own statements.
