“PM” confirms orders to prepare for the Thailand-Myanmar border situation

Today (2 November 2026) at 1:00 PM at Nong Khai Hospital, Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, gave an interview regarding the ongoing internal fighting in Myanmar, which has impacted citizens living along the Thai border and resulted in Thai citizens being injured—prompting the opposition to demand an official statement from the government. He stated that actions have already been taken through both military and diplomatic channels.

When reporters asked if any specific directives had been given now that bombs are falling on a daily basis, Prime Minister Anutin stated that the government is aware of the reports and has already informed the Myanmar government that they must take action to ensure no impacts spill over into Thailand. He noted that on October 31, 2026, the Chief of Defence Forces and Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, conveyed to the Myanmar government that Thailand is deeply concerned and requested that they proceed with utmost caution, avoiding any actions that target the lives, homes, or property of innocent citizens in both countries, not just Thailand.

When asked how the Myanmar authorities responded, the Prime Minister said that officials from the Myanmar Embassy were invited to be formally informed of Thailand’s concerns, and that the Chief of Defence Forces has already handled this matter.

When further asked if additional measures would be implemented should the situation fail to ease, Mr. Anutin stated that Thailand must fully protect its territory, noting that additional forces have been dispatched to patrol and increase readiness. He added that he has instructed the Chief of Defence Forces and the heads of the armed services to avoid clashes and conflicts as much as possible, emphasizing that the ongoing internal conflict does not involve Thailand or Thai people, and that the country's primary duty is to defend its territory to the fullest extent of its capabilities. Although some damage has already occurred, this is precisely why the Myanmar side was summoned and warned.

When asked about Myanmar refugees seeking safety in Thailand, Mr. Anutin explained that this is handled based on humanitarian principles: when they cross over, once the situation stabilizes—and Thailand has a clear operational plan in place—they are asked to return (avoiding the term “forceful deportation”), and they typically return voluntarily. Meanwhile, those who attempt to remain unlawfully are processed and deported in accordance with the law.

When asked specifically about threats made against Thai merchants warning that anyone supporting the Karen people would have their goods destroyed, Mr. Anutin stated that he has not yet heard about this issue and that there is no confirmed report.

Photo : Yanawut Samphaothong