BANGKOK, Thailand – Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has briefed ambassadors and representatives from 71 embassies and international organizations to explain Thailand’s suspension of the Thai–Cambodian Joint Declaration, citing escalating tensions and recent armed activity along the border. He stated that Thailand continues to seek peaceful solutions but must act to protect its sovereignty after evidence showed newly planted landmines and armed fire from Cambodian troops inside Thai territory.
Sihasak detailed the November 10 landmine blast in Sisaket province that injured four Thai soldiers, one of whom lost his right ankle. Investigators recovered fragments of PMN-2 mines along with additional mines in nearby areas previously encroached upon by Cambodian forces. Thailand concluded that Cambodian troops had re-entered Thai territory to plant the mines, prompting the suspension of the Joint Declaration and the postponement of the repatriation of 18 detained Cambodian soldiers.
Diplomats were also briefed on Thailand’s next steps, which include reporting the incidents to the UN Secretary-General and Japan, consulting ASEAN partners, and presenting the case at the Ottawa Convention meeting in early December. Sihasak stressed that operations related to transnational crime and the suppression of online scams will continue, as they fall under Thailand’s sole authority or involve international partners.
On November 12, Thai forces confirmed an armed exchange near Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Sa Kaeo after Cambodian soldiers fired approximately 30 rounds into Thai territory. Thai troops returned fire for roughly 10 minutes in what the army described as a measured, defensive response carried out under the Rules of Engagement. No Thai casualties were reported. Thai officials rejected Cambodia’s claim that Thailand fired into a civilian village, accusing Cambodian forces of using residential areas as cover.
By evening, local authorities instructed residents near the border to shelter in bunkers after hearing sounds resembling explosions. The Interior Ministry reported that the situation remains stable and urged the public to stay calm as security units continue round-the-clock monitoring. (NNT)
