http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-27480845
The Thai military has imposed martial law amid a political crisis "to preserve law and order", but says the surprise move is not a coup.
The move follows months of tension between the government and opposition.
Acting PM Niwatthamrong Boonsongphaisan urged the army to act "under the constitution" and "with no violence", and has asked for new polls in August.
The opposition protesters reject elections and one key leader vowed to continue the anti-government campaign.
'No need to panic'
Correspondents say martial law could enrage supporters of the government, especially if it is seen as amounting to a coup. The army has staged at least 11 coups since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932.
Soldiers have taken over TV and radio stations, and blocked off roads in the capital, Bangkok.
Army chief Prayuth Chan-Ocha called on rival parties to talk to each other and resolve the political crisis. Martial law would remain in place until "peace and order" had been restored, he told government officials on Tuesday.
Soldiers have moved into the main government building in Bangkok, which has been unoccupied following months of violent demonstrations by opponents who want to be rid of an administration they say is corrupt.
