Landmine Tensions: Thailand and Cambodia's Border Dispute

Thailand has accused Cambodia of deploying landmines in a disputed area, resulting in injuries to three Thai soldiers. Cambodia denies the allegations, attributing the injuries to mines left from past wars. Diplomatic tensions have heightened, with Thailand seeking accountability through international channels, while Cambodia urges court-mediated resolutions.

Thailand has leveled accusations against Cambodia over the alleged placement of landmines in a contentious border zone, following injuries sustained by three Thai soldiers. One soldier tragically lost a foot in the incident, which occurred on July 16 near Ubon Ratchathani and Preah Vihear.

Phnom Penh, however, firmly denies these allegations, stating that the soldiers deviated from acknowledged paths and fell victim to unexploded ordnance left over from historic conflicts. Cambodia maintains adherence to the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits antipersonnel landmines.

Nevertheless, the Thai army has reported discovering new Russian-manufactured PMN-2 landmines, not within Thailand's arsenal, between July 18 and July 20. The continuing tensions have sparked a diplomatic rift, prompting Thailand to demand accountability while Cambodia suggests resolving the issue through the International Court of Justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)