Renewed Tensions Between Thailand and Cambodia Over Landmines

On July 16, 2025, a landmine explosion near the disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia severely injured Thai Army Second Lieutenant Baramee Sricha, sparking five days of hostilities between the two nations. The explosion, attributed to a Soviet-era PMN-2 anti-personnel mine, led to accusations from Thailand that Cambodia had recently laid these mines along the border. Cambodia, however, denied these claims, asserting that the mines were remnants from its civil war era.

Experts Say Landmines That Sparked Thai-Cambodia Clash Were Likely Newly LaidFresh landmines blamed for Thai-Cambodian border blast as diplomatic tensions escalateReutersBloomberg

Thailand's military reported that at least six of its soldiers had been injured by PMN-2 mines since July, prompting diplomatic tensions. The Thai government provided evidence, including photographs and videos, claiming that the mines were newly planted and still bore visible markings. Conversely, Cambodia's Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) stated that the mines were likely older ordnance, suggesting they could be of American, Chinese, or Vietnamese origin. CMAA's First Vice President, Ly Thuch, emphasized that environmental factors could cause older mines to appear newer, calling for an impartial investigation to determine the facts.

Experts Say Landmines That Sparked Thai-Cambodia Clash Were Likely Newly Laid

Independent landmine experts examined the evidence and concluded that the PMN-2 mines appeared to have been recently laid. Andrew Vian Smith, a UK-based specialist, noted that the mines showed no signs of aging, such as dirt accumulation or brittleness, which would typically be expected from older devices. Yeshua Moser-Puangsuwan from Landmine Monitor supported this view, stating that flooding could displace a mine but would not make it look new. The CMAA countered that soil erosion and other environmental factors could mislead assessments of a mine's age.

Experts Say Landmines That Sparked Thai-Cambodia Clash Were Likely Newly Laid

In response to the escalating situation, Thailand has intensified diplomatic pressure on Cambodia, invoking the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines. Thailand has formally complained to the United Nations, urging Secretary-General António Guterres to facilitate a resolution. The UN has expressed support for dialogue between the two nations.

Fresh landmines blamed for Thai-Cambodian border blast as diplomatic tensions escalate

The conflict has drawn international attention, particularly as U.S. President Donald Trump is set to attend a peace agreement signing between Thailand and Cambodia at the upcoming ASEAN summit in Malaysia. While Cambodia has expressed readiness to negotiate, Thailand has outlined four conditions for peace, including the withdrawal of troops and the removal of landmines. The fragile ceasefire achieved in July remains tenuous, with both sides trading accusations of violations.

Digital JournalBloombergBloombergFresh landmines blamed for Thai-Cambodian border blast as diplomatic tensions escalateReutersExperts Say Landmines That Sparked Thai-Cambodia Clash Were Likely Newly Laid

The ongoing dispute over landmines not only threatens the fragile peace between Thailand and Cambodia but also raises concerns about the potential reversal of decades of demining efforts in the region. As both countries navigate this complex situation, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that honors commitments to eliminate landmines and fosters stability in Southeast Asia.

Reuters