Politics Government Denies Military Rift and Border Closure Amid Cambodia Tensions

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

The government has rejected claims of internal rifts with the military and firmly denied any plans to close the Thai-Cambodia border, amid escalating social media criticism over the administration’s handling of a sensitive territorial dispute with Cambodia.

 

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai issued a statement on the evening of 3 June, addressing online speculation, reiterating that both the government and military remain united in seeking a peaceful resolution.

 

“The military leadership and I have consulted repeatedly and share the same position. Both governments are trying to de-escalate the situation, focusing on the national interest and protecting sovereignty,” Phumtham said via social media.

 

Phumtham also clarified that while a border closure is not tantamount to military action, such a move would have significant economic consequences for people living along the frontier and complicate diplomatic efforts.

 

Growing nationalist sentiment online has slammed the government’s perceived softness in response to Cambodian political moves over the disputed border areas, including threats by Phnom Penh to take the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Some critics argue that the Thai government’s measured response stems from historically close ties between the Shinawatra and Hun political families.

 

Viroj Lakkhanaadisorn, MP and chairman of the House Committee on Military Affairs, publicly backed Lt. Gen. Boonsing Padklang, Commander of the Second Army Area, for his firm yet measured response.

 

“Lt. Gen. Boonsing has fulfilled his duties with strength and patience, safeguarding national sovereignty while remaining open to peaceful negotiation,” Viroj said in a Facebook post.

 

Viroj cautioned against making careless public statements that could be manipulated by Cambodia in future negotiations. He acknowledged the government’s need for strategic restraint but urged leaders to communicate clearly with the public to demonstrate that the issue is being handled seriously.

 

He warned that Cambodia’s ICJ threat was likely a political manoeuvre aimed at strengthening its negotiating position, noting that a court decision could take years and harm both nations’ economies.

 

“Even if Thailand could win a military conflict, the cost in human life, economic stability and the well-being of border communities would be too high,” Viroj added. “We must exhaust all peaceful options before resorting to force, and only then would military action be justified.”

 

The situation remains tense but contained, with both sides still officially committed to dialogue. The Thai government maintains that it will act decisively, lawfully and proportionately to protect the nation’s territorial integrity.

 

Related article:

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1362514-foreign-minister-cambodia’s-move-to-seek-icj-ruling-within-its-rights-will-not-impact-jbc/

https://aseannow.com/topic/1362441-thailand-ramps-up-border-talks-with-cambodia-to-ease-tensions/

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-04

 

 

 

 

 

 

[JAG]

3 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Even if Thailand could win a military conflict, the cost in human life, economic stability and the well-being of border communities would be too high,” Viroj added. “We must exhaust all peaceful options before resorting to force, and only then would military action be justified.”

Hmm, he may be considering the last few times they went up against the Cambodians.

 

Mind you, they seem to be taking it seriously, the General and his Staff Officers have got their webbing on!

[JimHuaHin]

"The government has rejected claims of internal rifts with the military..."

 

That would be a first; there have been various factions in the military/army for many many decades.