Thailand Cuts Cambodia Ties After Border Clashes, Landmine Injuries

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have sharply escalated following a series of violent incidents along their disputed border in July 2025. A landmine explosion near the Chong An Ma border crossing injured five Thai soldiers, with one losing a leg, prompting Thailand to accuse Cambodia of planting Russian-made mines in violation of the Ottawa Treaty. Thailand responded by closing border crossings, withdrawing its ambassador, expelling Cambodia's diplomat, and filing formal complaints internationally. Cambodia denies these allegations, asserting that the mines are remnants from past conflicts on its territory and accusing Thai soldiers of unauthorized incursions. The situation deteriorated further when Cambodian troops fired on a Thai military base near the Ta Muen Thom temple after Thai soldiers protested an unmanned Cambodian drone and troop movements. Both sides blame each other for incursions and provocations, with ongoing military operations and evacuations near the border signaling a potential broader conflict.