Thailand has announced a downgrade in its diplomatic relations with Cambodia following a landmine explosion near their shared border that injured five Thai soldiers. One of the soldiers suffered severe leg injuries, according to the Thai Army.
Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai ordered the recall of the Thai ambassador from Cambodia and expelled the Cambodian ambassador from Thailand. “Thailand will further consider the level of relationship with Cambodia,” stated the Prime Minister’s Office.
The incident occurred while Thai soldiers were on patrol in the border area. Thailand accuses Cambodia of recently planting the mines, alleging a violation of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, also known as the Ottawa Convention.
Cambodia has firmly rejected these accusations. Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense, stated that the Thai soldiers were injured because they strayed from mutually agreed patrol routes into areas known to contain unexploded mines from past conflicts. “Cambodia has repeatedly reminded the Thai side that these areas still contain many mines and remnants of war that have not been cleared,” she said.
The border between Thailand and Cambodia has been a source of tension in recent months. In late May, a brief exchange of gunfire resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The two nations have a history of disputes over border demarcations, and the presence of unexploded ordnance from past wars continues to pose a threat to people in the area.
Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense emphasized its commitment to resolving border issues peacefully and in accordance with international law. Both countries are signatories to the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines.
The situation has raised concerns about escalating tensions in the region. Observers hope that diplomatic channels will prevail to prevent further conflict and to promote cooperation in mine clearance efforts along the border.
