Did Thailand's Soldiers Really Get Injured by Landmines?
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Synopsis
Tensions escalate between Thailand and Cambodia as the Thai Army claims three soldiers were injured by a landmine explosion. Cambodia vehemently denies these allegations, asserting no new mines have been laid. What does this mean for the fragile peace in the region? This article delves into the unfolding situation and the implications for both nations.
Key Takeaways
- Three Thai soldiers were injured in a landmine explosion according to the Thai Army.
- Cambodia denies the allegations of having laid new landmines.
- The incident underscores ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border.
- Bilateral agreements were made to maintain troop levels without escalation.
- Both nations are encouraged to pursue peaceful resolutions.
Bangkok, Aug 10 (NationPress) The Thai Army reported that three soldiers were injured due to a landmine explosion while on a patrol along the Thai-Cambodian border. However, these claims have been strongly contested by Cambodia.
According to the Second Army Region of Thailand, the explosion took place at approximately 10:00 a.m. local time on Saturday as Thai troops were patrolling and installing barbed wire to enhance border security in Sisaket Province, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Thai army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree stated that this incident is a clear indication of the ongoing and hidden use of weapons by the Cambodian side, which violates the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, also known as the Ottawa Convention.
"Such actions present a significant barrier to achieving ceasefire measures and resolving conflicts through peaceful negotiations and further substantiate that Cambodia has habitually initiated the use of weapons first," Winthai said in an official statement.
On Saturday evening, the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) categorically denied the Thai claims that new mines were laid, resulting in the injuries to the three Thai soldiers.
"Cambodia’s stance is clear: We have neither laid nor will we lay new landmines," the CMAA stated in a press release.
"Currently, no official or transparent investigation has been conducted regarding the incident involving the injured Thai soldiers," the press release noted.
"In the absence of verified information, it is crucial for all parties to exercise caution in their public statements. Unfounded accusations not only jeopardize the cooperative spirit established under the ceasefire but also threaten to diminish trust at a critical time when constructive dialogue is essential," it further added.
The press release emphasized that Cambodia hopes the Thai side will adhere to the agreements made at the extraordinary meeting of the Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC), particularly point two, which stipulates that both sides maintain their current troop positions without further movements, including patrols toward the opposite side.
On August 7, both Cambodia and Thailand reached an agreement on ceasefire details and signed a pact at a GBC extraordinary meeting held in Malaysia. They agreed to uphold current troop levels and refrain from increasing military presence along the border.
Point of View
It's imperative to approach this incident with a balanced perspective. While the Thai Army's claims highlight ongoing tensions and concerns about border security, Cambodia's firm denial emphasizes the necessity for transparency and dialogue. Both nations must prioritize peaceful resolutions over accusations to maintain stability in the region.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the injuries to the Thai soldiers?
The Thai Army claims the injuries were caused by a landmine explosion during a patrol operation along the border.
What is Cambodia's response to the accusations?
Cambodia has strongly denied the allegations, stating that it has not laid any new landmines.
What agreements were made at the recent GBC meeting?
At the recent meeting, both countries agreed to maintain current troop deployments and avoid increasing military presence along the border.
What is the significance of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention?
The convention aims to eliminate the use of landmines, which pose risks to civilians and hinder peace efforts.
How can both countries move forward from this incident?
Both nations should engage in open dialogue and adhere to agreed-upon ceasefire measures to foster trust and stability.
