The Minister of Defense declares that all weapons seized at Hill 500 can be either used or destroyed by the military; they are currently under verification. He explains that the oil blockade against Cambodia is conducted by peaceful means and hints that the border situation will be resolved shortly.
At 08:30 on 16 Dec 2025 GMT+7 at the Government House, General Natthaphon Nakpanich, Minister of Defense, spoke before the National Security Council meeting about the latest Thai-Cambodian border situation. He said progress is being made step by step. Regarding concerns, he stated there are none; everything is proceeding according to the military's plan.
Regarding the new missiles found at Hill 500, and whether intelligence knows when they arrived amid speculation of underground market purchases, General Natthaphon said the information is not yet confirmed and is under investigation.
When asked if Chinese authorities have requested the return of these weapons, General Natthaphon said he was unaware of any such contact. These weapons remain under military custody, and according to regulations, any seized weapons belong to us. He emphasized that these weapons can be used or destroyed, but must be verified first.
On concerns from several countries, especially the United States, about the oil blockade, General Natthaphon stated that the approach is peaceful, without armed conflict or violence. It is a peaceful measure to limit Cambodian operations against us, affirming that the ceasefire will hold once Cambodia clearly and openly ends hostility. Therefore, any peaceful approach that ends hostility is the best path forward.
Regarding the hundreds of oil tankers parked at Chong Mek, Ubon Ratchathani Province, General Natthaphon said it is a matter for relevant government agencies to handle. Currently, the 2nd Army Region controls the situation, as they know oil is being transported through Chong Mek to Cambodia. This is a peaceful measure to limit Cambodian actions against us. When asked about the expected duration of the situation, General Natthaphon responded, "Just a little more time, please."