International Conflict: Thailand Plans to Elevate Landmine Controversy with Cambodia on Global Arena
Thailand is set to hold an emergency briefing for more than 50 nations and key donors to the Ottawa Convention, following a landmine explosion that injured seven Thai soldiers on August 12th. The incident has escalated tensions between the two countries, leading to diplomatic and military actions from Thailand.
The emergency briefing, scheduled for Friday, 15th August, will be led by the Foreign Minister and will take place before a visit to the border to view the situation. Ras Chaleechan, Assistant Minister to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has lodged a formal protest with Cambodia over the repeated landmine incidents, condemning them as a sign of Cambodia's "insincerity" in resolving the issue.
The landmine explosions not only pose a threat to the lives of Thai soldiers but also violate international humanitarian law. The incidents have caused at least 12 serious injuries to Thai soldiers over four separate blasts as of mid-August. This reflects Thailand’s strong condemnation of Cambodia’s deployment of anti-personnel mines within Thailand’s sovereign territory, a violation of a ceasefire and international agreements.
Diplomatic efforts to address the escalating issue are facing complexity due to longstanding historical grievances, nationalist politics, and reluctance from Thailand to involve the International Court of Justice, preferring bilateral negotiations instead. Thailand’s recent protests and diplomatic downgrades illustrate a firm stance against Cambodia’s actions following the landmine incidents and ongoing incursions.
It is worth noting that this incident is not related to Japan's support, border talks, border tensions, drone flight restrictions, the "Nang Yai" proposal, or the collusion case. Diplomatic representatives from nations and organizations involved in the Ottawa Convention will be invited to the special briefing.
The refusal of Cambodia to cooperate is a serious matter that contravenes international law, the UN Charter, and violates its obligations under the Ottawa Convention. Cambodia has rejected a joint mine-clearing operation proposed by Thailand. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will pursue all diplomatic avenues to their fullest extent to address the issue.
On Saturday, 16th August, the Foreign Minister will lead a delegation to Sisaket province to "ascertain the facts directly from personnel on the ground." The situation remains volatile, with diplomatic and military tensions high as both sides navigate a deep-rooted border dispute exacerbated by ongoing security incidents.
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