Thai Soldiers Injured Landmine Cambodia Fragile Truce
Three Thai soldiers have been injured by a landmine while patrolling the border with Cambodia, according to the army, days after the two neighbours agreed to a detailed ceasefire following a violent five-day conflict last month.
Escalating Tensions
One soldier lost a foot and two others were injured after one of them stepped on a landmine as they patrolled an area between Thailand’s Sisaket and Cambodia’s Preah Vihear provinces on Saturday morning, the Royal Thai Armed Forces said.
Thailand stated that the incident occurred within its territory, in an area recently cleared of landmines, and planned to file a complaint against Cambodia for violating the landmine ban treaty and infringing Thai sovereignty.
Background
The recent incident is the third in a series of mine-related injuries to Thai soldiers while patrolling the border. Previous similar events led to a deterioration of diplomatic ties and a five-day conflict between the two nations. The clashes, involving artillery fire, infantry battles, and jet fighter sorties, resulted in at least 43 fatalities.
The ceasefire was brokered on July 28 after US President Donald Trump intervened, threatening trade repercussions if the fighting persisted. Subsequent talks in Kuala Lumpur extended the truce and allowed ASEAN observers to inspect disputed areas, aiming to prevent further hostilities.
Denials and Accusations
Cambodia’s defence ministry denied involvement in the recent landmine incident and affirmed its commitment to the ceasefire. Bangkok, however, accused Cambodia of planting landmines on Thai territory, citing previous injuries on July 16 and July 23. Phnom Penh refuted these claims, attributing the injuries to old landmines from prior conflicts.
Conclusion
The escalation of tensions through mine-related incidents poses a threat to the fragile truce between Thailand and Cambodia. The involvement of ASEAN observers and diplomatic efforts will be crucial in maintaining peace and preventing further border conflicts.
Sources: Al Jazeera