Thai Army Rejects Cambodian Cultural Ministry Accusations Regarding Operations in Thai Sovereign Territory

Key summary

The Thai Army has firmly rejected accusations from Cambodia's Ministry of Culture and Arts regarding operations at Preah Vihear temples, stating that activities in the area are legitimate exercises of sovereignty within Thailand. General Winthai Suwari, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, clarified that tasks such as clearing landmines, restoring antiquities, and securing the region are conducted on Thai soil to protect national interests and public safety. The army addressed specific claims about removing artifacts from Preah Khan A temple, asserting these actions follow conservation principles rather than looting. General Winthai also highlighted evidence of Cambodian military use of historical sites, including the presence of PMN-2 landmines at Ta Kuy Temple and artillery positions at Preah Vihear, urging Cambodia to address these facts directly instead of making unilateral allegations.