AKP Phnom Penh, November 11, 2025 --  

The Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia this morning issued a press release rejecting Thailand’s accusation of laying new landmines and calling on the Thai side to avoid patrolling in old minefield areas. 

According to the press release, the Ministry of National Defence expressed its regret regarding the recent mine explosion incident on Nov. 10, 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, the source continued, 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 affirmed 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 reaffirmed 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 Cambodian civilians in various areas, especially along the border areas between Cambodia and its neighbouring countries, including Thailand. 

In this context, the Ministry of National Defence urged Thailand to avoid patrolling in old minefield areas, particularly in areas internationally recognised 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 Oct. 26, 2025,” the press release concluded. 

By C. Nika