BANGKOK, Dec. 8 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's military operations along the border with Cambodia will continue until its sovereignty and territorial integrity are no longer compromised, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura said on Monday.
Following a briefing to the diplomatic corps, Nikorndej said that Thailand undertakes its actions in response to attacks, defending its decision to launch air strikes against Cambodian positions as an act of self-defense.
All operations must be proportionate, in full compliance with the rules of engagement and international law, and exclusively directed against military targets, he told a news conference.
The spokesperson further said that Thailand's position, including the continuation of military action, will remain unchanged until "Cambodia changes its stance and pursues the path of peace."
Earlier in the day, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said that Thailand will exercise its "legitimate right to self-defense" to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to ongoing border clashes with Cambodia.
In a televised address following a resolution by the National Security Council, Anutin said that military operations will be conducted in all cases as dictated by the conditions of the situation, with prudence under the rules of engagement and adherence to humanitarian principles.
The renewed conflict has triggered a mass evacuation since Sunday night, with Thai officials reporting that about 400,000 residents across four border provinces have been evacuated to temporary shelters, while more than 600 schools have been closed to ensure public safety.
According to the Thai Army, the escalating violence along the Thai-Cambodian border has already claimed the life of one Thai soldier and injured 18 others. ■