A Thailand Cambodia Border Landmine blast injured another Thai soldier, intensifying tensions between the neighbours only days after a fragile ceasefire. The explosion is the fourth in a month, leading to fresh accusations and warnings of possible self-defence action.
Fourth Landmine Incident in a Month
The Thai army said the soldier injured his left ankle after stepping on a landmine during a patrol in Surin province. The site lies about one kilometre from the disputed Ta Moan Thom temple. He is now receiving treatment in hospital. Army officials called the blast proof of ceasefire violations and breaches of the Ottawa Convention against landmines.
Thai Army Accuses Cambodia of Ceasefire Breach
Thai army spokesman Major-General Winthai Suvaree accused Cambodia of secretly planting landmines along the border. He stressed that Thailand uses peaceful methods and has not initiated conflict. However, he warned that Thailand might use its right to self-defence under international law if Cambodian actions keep injuring personnel.
Cambodia Denies Allegations
Cambodia firmly rejected the claims. The defence ministry said the country has never used, produced, or deployed new landmines since joining the Ottawa Convention. Officials insisted that Cambodia honours its international obligations and remains committed to peaceful solutions.
Ongoing Border Dispute
The recent injury marks the fourth Thailand Cambodia Border Landmine case in weeks. On Saturday, three Thai soldiers were wounded by a landmine near the border between Thailand’s Sisaket and Cambodia’s Preah Vihear provinces. Earlier incidents in July led to reduced diplomatic ties and triggered armed clashes.
The two nations have argued for decades over undemarcated parts of their 817-kilometre border. Disputes often centre on the Ta Moan Thom and 11th-century Preah Vihear temples.
Recent Clashes and Ceasefire
Fighting broke out on July 24, the deadliest in more than ten years. Artillery fire and jet strikes killed at least 43 people and displaced over 300,000. Last week, both countries agreed to a ceasefire and allowed ASEAN observers to monitor disputed areas.
Conclusion
The latest Thailand Cambodia Border Landmine injury has strained relations further. Both governments speak of peace, but repeated incidents keep testing the truce. With old disputes unresolved, the risk of renewed fighting remains high.
