Ex-FM Surakiart sees “pivotal role” of Thai military in solving Myanmar crisis

14 Sept 03:30 Key points summarised by AI

Former Thai Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai urges the Thai military to mediate the Myanmar crisis, citing its strong, trust-based relationships with the Myanmar junta leaders.
Surakiart argues that the extreme violence in Myanmar overrides ASEAN's non-interference principle, necessitating an urgent "special channel" for dialogue.
He proposes that former Thai military leaders, alongside counterparts from other ASEAN countries, engage in "quiet diplomacy" to bring the military regime and pro-democracy groups to the negotiating table.
The ex-FM warns that diplomatic failure could lead to Myanmar becoming a failed state, potentially inviting international intervention under the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine, and questions ASEAN's centrality if it cannot resolve the crisis.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.