Thai Army Accuses Cambodia of New Minefield Dispute
- Thailand's National security Council on November 11, 2025, resolved to suspend implementation of a joint declaration signed with Cambodia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, following the discovery of newly...
- While Cambodian authorities initially attributed the incident to remnants of past conflicts, a thorough examination of the evidence, as confirmed by a Royal Thai Army spokesperson, demonstrates the...
- the Royal Thai Army asserts that the placement of these new mines constitutes a violation of the Ottawa Convention, a treaty prohibiting the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer...
Thailand Suspends Border Agreement with Cambodia Following Mine Incident
Thailand’s National security Council on November 11, 2025, resolved to suspend implementation of a joint declaration signed with Cambodia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, following the discovery of newly laid landmines along the shared border. The decision comes after Thai personnel triggered a mine, prompting an examination that revealed evidence contradicting Cambodia’s initial claims.
Evidence Points to Recent mine Laying
While Cambodian authorities initially attributed the incident to remnants of past conflicts, a thorough examination of the evidence, as confirmed by a Royal Thai Army spokesperson, demonstrates the presence of newly planted mines within thai territory.Investigators afterward located three additional mines in the immediate vicinity. This discovery raises serious concerns about Cambodian compliance with existing agreements and international law.
Violation of International Conventions
the Royal Thai Army asserts that the placement of these new mines constitutes a violation of the Ottawa Convention, a treaty prohibiting the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. The incident has also forced a temporary halt to ongoing international peace initiatives along the border. The Ottawa Convention, formally known as the Mine Ban Treaty, entered into force in 1999 and has been ratified by over 160 countries; however, neither Thailand nor Cambodia are signatories.
Military Preparedness and Sovereignty
The Royal Thai Army has affirmed its full readiness to defend Thai sovereignty, acting in accordance with resolutions passed by the National Security Council and directives from the Ministry of Defence. Personnel and equipment are prepared to exercise the right to self-defense in response to what the Army characterizes as ”unfair actions.” This stance underscores Thailand’s commitment to protecting its territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
The situation remains fluid, and further diplomatic efforts will likely be required to address the underlying issues and restore trust between the two nations.