BANGKOK, Thailand – Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Region, joined students and alumni at Kasetsart University for a special talk titled “The Truth from the Border.” The auditorium overflowed with attendees eager to hear his account of recent clashes along the Thai–Cambodian frontier.
Speaking about the five-day battle from July 24–28, Lt. Gen. Boonsin emphasized that Thailand was prepared and had no choice but to respond after closing the Ta Muen Thom temple area to prevent youths from both countries from clashing there. He praised Thai soldiers who fought bravely, highlighting the sacrifices of those injured and killed.
He said that managing border security requires difficult split-second decisions between fighting, waiting, negotiating, or holding firm. While some criticized the military for not being aggressive enough, he explained that reckless decisions could risk international condemnation, wider war, and heavy civilian losses. “If waiting serves the national interest, then we must wait,” he said, adding that Thailand would never accept negotiations that weaken its sovereignty.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin stressed that Thailand must be ready for both dialogue and defense: “If they provoke, we will respond. If they shoot, we have the right to defend ourselves.” He cited previous successes where Thai troops retook contested ground, praising their courage.
He admitted feeling hurt when people ask “Why do we need soldiers?” – insisting that the military exists not only for combat but also to serve communities, provide disaster relief, maintain security, and uphold national unity. “We train hard not because it is easy, but so we are ready the moment the country needs us,” he said.
On whether clashes could erupt again, including near Ta Kwai temple in Surin province, Lt. Gen. Boonsin said it depends on Cambodia’s leadership and military conduct. “If they act aggressively or provoke us, we have every right to respond. Until September 30, I will give everything I have, even as my retirement approaches,” he concluded.
