Thailand's military insisted Thursday that a coup d'état was needed to prevent the country from spiraling into a civil war. 

The Wall Street Journal reports that the Thai military cited the public's strong beliefs and lawmakers' refusal to compromise as the reasons the coup needed to be enforced. 

"Had Thailand continued on the path we were headed it would have led to more instability, protracted conflicts and divisiveness," said foreign ministry spokesperson Sek Wannamethee at the military's briefing for foreign media.

Wannamethee said the military had to intervene to prevent the deterioration of the country's economic and social structure after enduring seven months of street protests. The political unrest has disrupted the economy, adding to the unstable nature of the country. 

He added that the military does not intend to rule indefinitely, but did not give a time when the military would give power back to a democratic government, and did not mention when the constitution will be reinstated. 

"It is the council's intention to create the right conditions for national reconciliation and push forward the reform process in order to put Thailand back on a path towards free and fair elections and restore democracy once again," Wannamethee said. 

Army deputy chief of staff Lt. Gen. Chatchalerm Chalermsukh said the military felt politicans could not compromise to reach an agreement. 

A meeting was scheduled between the leaders of Thailand's opposing political groups, the government of former Prime Ministers Yingluck Shinawatra and Niwattumrong Boonsongpaisan, and antigovernment leader Suthep Thaugsuban. Yet, the military said the two sides could not reach a compromise, so the military decided to impose martial law to prevent a civil war. 

The military declared martial law last Tuesday, then a coup was declared last Thursday. 

The army also said they found military-grade weapons in some areas, but did not provide further details. 

Lt. Gen. Chatchalerm said the coup was instated to "prevent Thailand from becoming a failed state."

He said the coup was not planned in advance, as a premeditated coup is considered treason, and is punishable by death. 

He added that elections will not take place to restore a civilian government until "citizens abide by the law" and there is peace between the country's opposing political factions.