But the Army Issue an Important Statement

Some grounds for optimism tonight as the army issue a statement underlining their committement to the monarchy and to peaceful resolution of the problems. The Head of the army said the following :-

The use of force to disperse the red shirts will cause untold damage and farreaching implications but the problem will not end," Sirichan quoted Anupong as telling the Army top generals during a twohour meeting.
Anupong deemed it necessary to bring about an understanding among Thai citizens, she said, adding the Army's role is to act as cushion to prevent the opposing sides from attacking one another.
The military will ensure the rule of law and unruly crowds would be penalised in accordance to relevant laws, she said.
In the Army assessment report, the predicament was instigated by concerted efforts designed to grab power and overthrow the monarchy, she said.
The top generals were instructed to relay Anupong's message urging the Army ranks not to get involved in the rallies, she said.
She stated that Anupong wanted the Army to play a critical role of bring about understanding as a way to heal the social divisions and that he also emphasised that the priority of the armed forces was to safeguard the country.
"Keeping the national interest in mind, the Army remains ready to help resolve the predicament via reasoning and not attacking fellow Thais," she quoted Anupong as saying.