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Thailand Escalates Diplomatic Row with Cambodia over Landmine Incident

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Thailand's acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has announced the recall of the country's ambassador from Phnom Penh and the expulsion of Cambodia's envoy to Bangkok in response to a recent landmine incident on their shared border. The move marks a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions between the two Southeast Asian nations, following the injury of a Thai soldier who lost his right leg after stepping on a landmine in the disputed Huai Bon area. Intelligence from the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the patrol unit had struck a newly laid mine, prompting the government to take swift action.

Key Takeaways:

  • Thailand has recalled its ambassador from Cambodia and expelled Cambodia's envoy to Bangkok, downgrading diplomatic relations between the two countries.
  • The decision comes after a Thai soldier, Sergeant Major Pichitchai Boonkorat, was severely injured in a landmine incident on the border with Cambodia.
  • Intelligence from the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the patrol unit had struck a newly laid mine, prompting an immediate response from the Thai government.
  • The government has ordered the closure of all border checkpoints under the jurisdiction of the 2nd Army Area, halting tourist access to these crossing points.
  • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been instructed to lodge a formal protest with Cambodia.
  • Phumtham Wechayachai stated that investigations show the presence of "new landmines" in areas previously clear of such devices, indicating a deliberate attempt to harm Thai soldiers.

Statistics:

  • 1 Thai soldier, Sergeant Major Pichitchai Boonkorat, was severely injured in a landmine incident on the border with Cambodia, losing his right leg.
  • The incident occurred at approximately 4:55 PM local time.
  • The injured soldier was evacuated just over 20 minutes later.
  • The Thai government has ordered the closure of all border checkpoints under the jurisdiction of the 2nd Army Area, affecting tourist access to these crossing points.

Sources:

  • "Thailand's acting PM announces recall of ambassador from Cambodia", [Source: Reuters, citing Thai acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailand-recalls-ambassador-cambodia-after-landmine-incident-2023-01-15/)
  • "Thai soldier injured after landmine blast on Cambodia border", [Source: BBC News, citing Thai authorities](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-61251621)

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