Cambodia has denied accusations that it fired PHL-03 missiles into Thailand, as Thailand intensifies its attacks on Cambodia, with naval elements joining the fighting on the third day of fighting.
During an afternoon press conference, Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Maly Socheata addressed Thai media reports which claimed that Cambodia had fired PHL-03 missiles into Thailand, an accusation she strongly denied.
“The defence ministry also categorically denies and condemns Thailand’s malicious accusations and lies that Cambodia fired rockets into Laos territory, especially since Laos authorities have not made any such accusations. This claim was made directly by Thailand’s Army Region 2,” she said.
She reiterated that Cambodian armed forces have only engaged in defensive actions against their Thai counterparts, targeting solely military positions, as part of their right to self-defence, as outlined in Article 51 of the UN Charter.
“Furthermore, recent reports in Thailand claimed that Cambodia used long-range PHL-03 missiles. The ministry strongly denies this falsehood and fake news aimed at smearing Cambodia. It is unnecessary for Cambodia to use the PHL-03,” she added.
According to the spokesperson, Thailand has expanded its targets, initially attacking Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, but has now extended its aggression to Pursat and Banteay Meanchey.
“It should be noted that Thailand is aggressively firing into Cambodian territory, indiscriminately targeting civilian infrastructure and endangering innocent people, including the elderly, women and children,” she said.
Today, July 26, Thailand began firing in the morning at Chak Chreng, Veal Entry, Ta Thav, Phnom Khmoach, Choan Te, and An Ses. Their second wave of attacks targeted Pursat province, starting at 5am and continuing until now, 5pm. In Banteay Meanchey, no shooting has taken place, although Thailand has mobilised troops and artillery near the border, according to Socheata.
Source: from The Phnom Penh Post | Defence ministry deny use of long-range missiles
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