Thailand Recalls Ambassador, Expels Cambodian Envoy After New Border Mine Injury

Brickinfo News Agency – Thailand has announced a significant downgrade in diplomatic relations with Cambodia following an incident today (July 23, 2025), where a Thai soldier sustained severe injuries after stepping on a new landmine near the border. The decision, announced by Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, includes the recall of Thailand’s ambassador to Phnom Penh and the expulsion of Cambodia’s ambassador to Thailand. Additionally, all border crossings under the jurisdiction of the 2nd Army Area have been ordered closed to all traffic.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:55 PM when Sergeant Major Pichitchai Boonkorat, a soldier from a patrol unit of the 14th Infantry Regiment, stepped on a landmine in the Huai Bon, Chong Arn Ma area of Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. The blast resulted in the severe injury and severing of his right leg. He was evacuated from the area by 5:18 PM.

Phumtham stated that the decision to close the border crossings was based on a recommendation from the 2nd Army Area and the Royal Thai Army, which the government has approved. He added that the government is considering further measures regarding the diplomatic relationship. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also been instructed to lodge a formal protest with the Cambodian government.

Phumtham highlighted that investigations indicate the mine was recently planted, a departure from past observations in the area, and that similar incidents have occurred at multiple locations concurrently.

In a separate statement, the Royal Thai Army condemned the laying of landmines by the Cambodian side in the Chong Arn Ma border area. The army reported that the incident resulted in injuries to five personnel from the 14th Infantry Battalion patrol unit. In addition to Sergeant Major Pichitchai, four other soldiers experienced chest tightness and ringing in their ears from the blast’s shockwave. All injured personnel are currently receiving medical treatment at Nam Yuen Hospital.

The Royal Thai Army views this incident, which occurred within Thai territory, as an inhumane act that violates international humanitarian principles and agreements. It has been characterized as a serious threat to peace and stability along the border between the two nations. The Royal Thai Army has called on Cambodia to take responsibility for the incident.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army is scheduled to visit the area tomorrow to assess the situation and attend to the injured soldiers. Furthermore, the 1st Army Area, 2nd Army Area, and other relevant units have been ordered to prepare for the implementation of “Chakraphong Phuwanat” plan upon command. The Royal Thai Army affirmed its commitment to utilizing all available mechanisms within appropriate frameworks to safeguard the security of its personnel and Thai citizens from similar incidents in the future.