Cambodia Rejects Thai Allegations Over Border Mine Incident

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov.11, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence on Tuesday rejected accusations by Thai officials that Cambodian forces laid new landmines along the border, following a Nov. 10 explosion that injured Thai soldiers in Preah Vihear province.

In a statement issued by ministry spokeswoman Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata on November 11, the ministry expressed regret over the incident, which occurred as Thai troops were patrolling a mine-contaminated area believed to contain remnants from past conflicts.

The ministry said several Thai media outlets had published reports quoting Thai leaders and military officials who alleged that Cambodia had placed new mines. Cambodia “firmly rejects” those claims, the statement said.

The ministry reaffirmed that Cambodia has remained in full compliance with the Ottawa Convention since becoming a State Party, and has not used or placed new landmines that threaten civilian safety.

“Despite decades of clearance efforts, unexploded ordnance from past conflicts continues to pose risks, particularly along border areas,” the statement said.

The ministry urged Thai forces to avoid patrolling in zones internationally recognized as mine-contaminated, warning that old mines could trigger unnecessary tensions.
According to Cambodia’s 4th Military Region, frontline units from both countries communicated after the incident, and the situation remains calm with no reports of further escalation.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to working with Thailand to promote peace and stability, and to ensure civilian safety in line with the Joint Declaration signed by both governments on Oct. 26, 2025.