Fighting continues along the border between Thailand and Cambodia this morning, July 24, at key conflict points: Ta Mone Thom Temple, Ta Krabey Temple, the Mom Bei area and near Preah Vihear Temple.
Cambodian leaders have said that Thai soldiers initiated the attack, following yesterday’s announcement of the implementation of the “Chakraphong Phuvanaat military strategy” by the Thai military.
Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thai forces launched attacks on Cambodian military positions at the Ta Mone Thom and Ta Krabey temples in Oddar Meanchey province and expanded their assault to the Mom Bei area.
“Cambodia has always adhered to resolving issues peacefully, but in this case, we have no choice but to respond with force against this armed invasion,” he said, via social media.
“The Royal Government of Cambodia, relevant ministries, provincial authorities and especially Cambodia’s armed forces are actively and courageously working to protect the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and supreme national interests, both on the military battlefield and in diplomatic efforts, while also assisting citizens affected by the Thai military’s invasion,” he added.
Senate president Hun Sen also confirmed that the Thai military’s invasion followed their order issued yesterday (July 23) to close Ta Mone Thom Temple on July 24, after which they began attacking Cambodian forces.
“The Cambodian military has no choice but to resist and counterattack. I urge our fellow Cambodians not to panic, hoard rice or goods, or inflate prices. Please carry on with normal activities in all sectors and places, except in the border areas of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces, which are under attack from Thai forces,” he posted on social media.
Both Manet and Hun Sen called on the public to trust the Royal Government and Cambodia’s armed forces.
“Please remain calm and composed, and continue your daily work as usual,” said Hun Sen.
Thai media outlet Thai PBS World reported today that the Thai army has launched an operation, known as the “Chakraphong Phuvanaat military strategy”, to deal with Cambodia, following another landmine detonation in the Chong An Ma pass, in which a Thai soldier lost a leg.
It noted that the strategy was employed by the Thai army during armed clashes with Cambodia over the Preah Vihear Temple from 2008 to 2011.
Cambodian veteran journalist Soy Sopheap reported from the ground that Thailand had used six F-16 fighter jets to drop bombs at the battlefields. He said the Cambodian army claimed to have downed one of the jets.
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