BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Army has rejected allegations made by Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense, which claimed that Thai forces used poisonous gas in a civilian area of Banteay Meanchey province. The accusation, issued on December 10, referred to an alleged gas attack in O Bei Choan subdistrict, which Cambodian officials labeled a violation of international humanitarian law.
In response, Thai Army spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvaree dismissed the claim and condemned Cambodia for spreading misinformation. According to the Thai military, Cambodian forces have initiated attacks along the border since December 7, launching small arms and heavy weapons fire into Thai territory, including areas with civilian populations and medical facilities.
The Thai side reported that BM-21 rockets were fired by Cambodia into areas near Phanom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin province earlier in the day, as well as into surrounding communities. These attacks have resulted in casualties among Thai military personnel and disrupted civilian life in several border provinces.
Thailand stated that it has acted in accordance with international law by limiting its military response to clearly defined combat zones. It reiterated that no chemical weapons or toxic substances have been used at any time during the conflict. The army described the accusation of gas attacks as unsubstantiated and lacking credible evidence.
The Royal Thai Army also responded to claims from Phnom Penh regarding damage to cultural heritage sites. Thai intelligence reports indicate that Cambodian troops have been operating from within civilian zones and historical sites, including casino buildings and temples, using them as cover for military actions. Thai forces recently detected the placement of mortars and anti-drone systems inside the Preah Vihear Temple area, which Thai officials say confirms military use of the site.
Thailand condemned the use of civilian structures and heritage locations for military purposes, warning that such actions increase the risk to non-combatants and worsen the conflict. The Royal Thai Army called on Cambodia to halt operations that place civilians at risk and to avoid further escalation along the shared border. (NNT)
