The Army denies Cambodia's accusations claiming Thailand violated sovereignty and caused damage to ancient sites, affirming that its operations are conducted under international law and emphasizing that the areas lie within Thai sovereignty jurisdiction.
On 24 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Maj. Gen. Winthai Suwaree, Army spokesperson, responded to a statement by the Cambodian government spokesperson alleging sovereignty violations and damage to ancient sites along the border. He said Thailand rejects these accusations. The Army affirms that its operations at Ta Kwai Temple, Preah Vihear Temple, and An Ma area are conducted within the framework of military regulations and international law, aiming to maintain order and protect national sovereignty. Infrastructure projects and activities in these areas are within Thai sovereign territory to enhance safety for military personnel and civilians, not acts of aggression or provocation as alleged. Regarding damage to ancient sites, the Army stressed Thailand's respect for cultural heritage. However, in many areas, Cambodia has used ancient sites as military bases and weapon firing positions to attack and threaten Thai military and civilians, with clear evidence. This has caused those sites to lose protection status under international conventions, a result of Cambodia's own actions. Therefore, the Thai Army must take self-defense measures to protect Thai lives and safety under international principles, with no intention to damage ancient or sacred sites.
Maj. Gen. Winthai added that the placement of Buddha images in the An Ma area is carried out under religious freedom and belief frameworks to boost morale among local Thai communities, not intended to disrespect or affect others' beliefs as Cambodia has distorted. The Army remains committed to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and is prepared to use existing bilateral cooperation mechanisms to ease the situation, while maintaining full readiness to defend sovereignty and national interests. He urged Cambodia to present information based on facts and avoid accusations or attempts to damage Thailand’s image with false claims, which could mislead both domestic and international communities and harm potential future cooperation.