Bangkok: Thailand has expelled the Cambodian ambassador and recalled its envoy after a Thai soldier lost a leg in a landmine blast as a border dispute festers. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that the Thai military's investigation found evidence of new landmines allegedly laid by Cambodia in the disputed area.
According to TRTworld.com, the long-running territorial dispute in the Emerald Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge, escalated into military clashes in May, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The situation has led to Thailand's decision to downgrade diplomatic relations, recalling its ambassador to Cambodia and expelling Cambodia's ambassador to Thailand.
The recent landmine incident also left other Thai soldiers with ear injuries and chest pain. The Thai army has confirmed that the army chief will visit the wounded soldiers on Thursday to assess their condition and offer support.
The border conflict has strained relations between Phnom Penh and Bangkok, causing closure of border crossings and Cambodia's decision to block imports of fuel, gas, fruit, and vegetables from Thailand. This border row has also instigated a political crisis within Thailand, leading to the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is currently facing an ethics probe related to her conduct during the dispute.
A diplomatic call between Paetongtarn and Cambodia's former ruler Hun Sen, father of current Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, was leaked, prompting a judicial investigation. In response to the escalating tensions, Hun Manet announced that Cambodia would begin conscripting civilians next year under a long-dormant mandatory draft law, citing the need for conscription and a potential increase in the defense budget due to the situation with Thailand.