Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia has called on Cambodian citizens to remain calm and place their full trust in his government amid the escalating tensions with Thailand.
The Khmer Times said the appeal was made following what it described as attacks by Thai troops on Cambodian military positions at Ta Moan Thom and Ta Krabei temples in Oddar Meanchey province, as well as the Mom Bei area in Preah Vihear province.
“Cambodia has always stood by its principle of resolving disputes through peaceful means,” Hun Manet stated. “But in this situation, we have no choice but to respond with military force against the armed aggression.”
At the same time, Cambodian strongman Hun Sen accused Thai troops of invading Cambodian territory and blocking access to the sites of the historical temples.
“The Cambodian military has no choice but to respond and launch a counterattack,” the former prime minister said in a Facebook post.
The Khmer Times reported that while confirming that military engagement is ongoing in parts of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces, Hun Sen said that the rest of the country remains peaceful and unaffected.
“We urge all Cambodian citizens not to panic, hoard rice or goods, or raise prices on essential items,” Hun Sen wrote. “Please continue your daily activities as normal in all sectors and areas, except in the border regions where fighting is taking place.”
