Thai government renews threat of force against protesters;
The Thai government Monday renewed its threat to use force to disperse the anti-government protesters now rallying at Bangkok's prime business area, and Foreign Affairs Minister Kasit Piromya said he is preparing to visit neighbouring countries to explain Thailand's current political situation in this country.
Thai troops fired bullets and tear gas at anti-government protesters rioting near the US and Japanese embassies Friday as an army push to clear the streets sparked clashes that have killed two and turned central Bangkok into a virtual war zone.