(Phnom Penh): According to Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokesperson of the Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia expresses its regret regarding the recent mine explosion incident on 10 November 2025, that resulted in injuries to Thai soldiers while they were patrolling into the minefield that is the remnants of past conflicts.

In the meantime, it was observed that from yesterday until today, several Thai media outlets published reports citing Thai leaders’ and Thai military officials’ assertions accusing Cambodia of laying new landmines, causing Thai soldiers to be trampled and seriously injured in Preah Vihear province. The Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia firmly rejects accusations made by the Thai side against Cambodia.

The Ministry of National Defence strongly affirms that since Cambodia became a State Party to the Ottawa Convention, it has remained fully and consistently in compliance with the principles and obligations of international law. Cambodia reaffirms that it has not used or placed any new landmines that threaten the security and safety of civilians.

It is true that despite relentless efforts over the past several decades to clear landmines, the unexploded ordnance that are the remnants of past conflicts still pose threats to the security and safety of the Cambodian civilian in various areas, especially along the border areas between Cambodia and its neighboring countries, including Thailand.

In this context, the Ministry of National Defence urges Thailand to avoid patrolling in old minefield areas, particularly in areas internationally recognized as mine-contaminated zones resulting from past conflicts, to prevent the potential danger of exploding old landmines that could cause unnecessary tensions.

According to the Cambodian 4th Military Region, after the incident, both military forces on the front lines had communicated with each other, and, as of now, the situation remains calm, with no tension having been reported.

The Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia remains committed to working closely with Thailand to promote peace and stability between the two countries, especially ensuring the security and safety of civilians, in accordance with the Joint Declaration between Cambodia and Thailand signed on 26 October 2025.
=FRESH NEWS