Thailand Halts Cambodia Peace Deal After Border Mine Injuries

Thailand has suspended a peace agreement with Cambodia following injuries sustained by Thai soldiers from land mines along their shared border. The decision, announced by Defense Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit on Tuesday, comes in response to ongoing tensions between the two nations, with the government citing security concerns.

During a meeting of the National Security Council, Narkphanit stated, “All terms in the joint declaration will be suspended, and the plan to release Cambodian detainees will be terminated.” His remarks align with statements made by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul earlier in the week. The suspension will remain in effect until the situation stabilizes, according to government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat.

In light of the recent incidents, Anutin has directed the defense ministry to enhance military operations aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s sovereignty and ensuring border security. The prime minister plans to visit soldiers injured by what the Thai army claims were newly laid mines, with this incident being the seventh of its kind in just four months. The recent spate of explosions has been a significant factor in escalating tensions, leading to the deadliest border clashes in years prior to the intervention of Donald Trump.

The U.S. president previously warned that he would reconsider trade deals with both Thailand and Cambodia unless hostilities ceased. Thai officials noted that a peace summit during Trump’s visit to Asia last month was a prerequisite for progressing on trade agreements. In his appeal to Trump for a more favorable trade deal, Anutin referenced the peace accord as a key component of ongoing negotiations.

The Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords, which were initially established to foster cooperation and normalize relations, included provisions for the removal of heavy weaponry from border areas and collaboration on land-mine clearance. Additionally, Thailand has sought increased action from Cambodia against cyber-scam operations originating from within its borders.

In response to the allegations regarding newly laid mines, Cambodia’s defense ministry denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the mines were likely remnants from past conflicts that had not yet been cleared. A spokesperson stated, “Cambodia remains committed to working closely with Thailand to promote peace and stability under the Trump-backed peace declaration.”

On a related note, a recent joint statement concerning the U.S.-Thai trade arrangement highlighted preliminary agreements, including Thailand’s commitment to eliminate tariffs on approximately 99% of U.S. goods, particularly in sectors like agriculture and industry. In exchange, the U.S. will impose tariffs of 19% on Thai products, with certain items set to be tariff-free, although specific details are still under discussion.

Thai authorities have indicated that this trade framework is non-binding and that detailed negotiations will continue, aiming for completion by the end of the year. As both nations navigate these complex diplomatic waters, the future of their relations remains uncertain.