BREAKING NEWS - Thai Deputy PM Calls Emergency Security Meeting After Border Incident with Cambodia

Thai Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced an emergency National Security Council meeting today following reports of gunfire between Thai and Cambodian forces near the disputed Ta Muen Thom temple area along the border.

What Happened This Morning

Speaking from Government House on July 24, 2025, Deputy PM Phumtham, who is also serving as Acting Prime Minister, revealed he received reports around 8 AM about gunshots in the border area. The incident occurred at Ta Muen Thom temple, a historically disputed site between Thailand and Cambodia.

"We are currently investigating the details of what happened," Phumtham said. "The situation requires careful handling, and we must follow international law principles."

The Deputy PM emphasized caution in how the media reports on this sensitive situation, warning that emergency incidents could happen at any time. He confirmed that the Thai-Cambodia Border Situation Management Center and military leaders are currently in meetings to assess the situation.

Emergency Security Meeting Called

Phumtham announced he has called an emergency National Security Council meeting for 2 PM today, where he will chair the session. He promised to provide a full briefing after the meeting concludes.

When asked about civilian evacuations in border areas, the Deputy PM confirmed that authorities are already handling necessary procedures. However, he declined to provide specific details about military authorization processes until after the security meeting.

Diplomatic Tensions Rise

The situation became more complicated when Cambodia's Ambassador to Thailand posted on social media, suggesting Thailand was "acting emotionally" and questioning the country's management approach. When asked about Thailand's response to these diplomatic comments, Phumtham said he would address all details after the afternoon briefing.

"Right now, we are doing our best to protect our country's sovereignty," he stated firmly.

Clarifying the Incident

The Deputy PM was careful to correct terminology used by reporters, stating that what occurred was not exactly a "clash" between forces. He confirmed the incident happened at only one location around 8 AM and no other border points were involved.

Historical Context and Misinformation

Addressing social media rumors, Phumtham strongly denied claims that he had signed any new agreement allowing Cambodian forces to occupy Ta Muen Thom temple. He called such claims "nonsense" and warned against spreading false information.

"The situation at Ta Muen Thom temple follows existing agreements that have been in place for decades," he explained. "This has nothing to do with me or anyone in the current government. We are simply continuing to follow established protocols."

The Deputy PM criticized those spreading misinformation on social media, saying such actions only create more conflict and violence. He urged people not to use false news to damage the country's interests.

Current Status

As of now, the Thai-Cambodia Border Situation Management Center continues monitoring the situation. Military commanders from the Second Army Area are coordinating response efforts while following proper international protocols.

When asked about reports of civilian evacuations in Surin Province, Phumtham said he would wait for official reports from the security meeting rather than respond to unconfirmed rumors.

What's Next

The Deputy PM promised full transparency after today's National Security Council meeting. All stakeholders, including military leaders and border management officials, will provide comprehensive updates on the situation and Thailand's response strategy.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodia border, particularly around historical sites like Ta Muen Thom temple, which has been a source of diplomatic disputes for years. Both countries maintain military presence in the area under existing bilateral agreements.

Thailand's government appears focused on de-escalating the situation through proper diplomatic channels while firmly protecting national sovereignty. The afternoon security meeting will likely determine the next steps in managing this delicate border situation.