The military clarifies the Thailand-Cambodia border issue, affirming that mine clearance is a humanitarian mission aimed at protecting civilian lives and reducing risks in the area. It denies invading Cambodia, emphasizes Thailand’s firm commitment to defending its sovereignty, and calls for constructive language to reduce tensions.
18 Jan 2026 GMT+7 Thailand-Cambodia Situation Information Center It explains the discovery of numerous landmines in the Thailand border area as follows: Thailand places the highest priority on the safety of its soldiers and civilians in border areas. The detection of landmines results from humanitarian operations by responsible agencies, conducted transparently and in accordance with international standards. Thailand affirms that mine clearance aims to protect civilian lives and reduce area risks, not to act aggressively or provoke militarily, and welcomes joint inspections within appropriate frameworks.
Regarding concerns over Thai soldiers facing dangers from numerous mines, the Thai military has increased risk prevention measures involving tactics, equipment, and specialized training to ensure operations are conducted with utmost care. It reiterates that the main mission is to defend sovereignty while protecting lives, adhering to humanitarian principles and utmost responsibility.
Regarding reports and stories about Cambodian suicide drones, Thailand acknowledges the information circulating on social media and is conducting a thorough fact-check. Following Thai principles, it seeks to avoid expanding on unverified information and urges media and the public to exercise discretion to prevent misunderstandings or unnecessary escalation.
Concerning complaints from local residents near the border market about inspections by officials, the operations comply with laws and security measures amid sensitive circumstances. Thailand listens to public concerns and is ready to investigate facts to avoid unnecessary impact on livelihoods, while prioritizing overall security and safety.
On allegations by Cambodia accusing Thailand of invasion and land seizure, Thailand completely denies these claims. It consistently upholds the principle of protecting its sovereignty without encroaching on other countries’ territories. Maintaining military presence along established lines is to secure the area. This also aims to reduce tensions as agreed in joint statement item 2 from 27 Dec 2025. Any allegations should be verified through mutually accepted mechanisms, not made unilaterally in media or social networks.
Regarding Cambodia’s claim that Thailand’s actions violate the agreement allowing civilians to return to the area (item 4), the Thailand-Cambodia Situation Information Center explains: Thailand strictly respects the joint statements and humanitarian principles. All actions in the area primarily target civilian safety, especially where risks from weapons or mines remain. Thailand is ready to discuss within joint frameworks to ensure civilians return safely, with dignity and sustainability.
Furthermore, in response to Cambodian media calling Thailand an invader, Thailand urges all parties to use constructive, non-provocative language and avoid blame. Harsh rhetoric or accusations could complicate the situation and undermine efforts to ease tensions. Thailand supports language reflecting facts and resolving issues through dialogue.
Regarding the film "Ghost Mountain: Second Killing Field," which accuses Thailand of violence, Thailand acknowledges the information and stresses that creative works like films should not be used to distort history or incite hatred. Thailand believes conflict narratives should be based on verifiable facts and consider the impact on relations between the peoples of both countries.
Concerning Cambodia’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its relevance to the border situation, Thailand views this as unrelated. Ratifying UNCLOS is a sovereign right pertaining to maritime law frameworks and should not be linked or used to escalate land disputes. Each issue should be considered in its proper context.
Thailand’s main message to the international community is its firm adherence to protecting sovereignty under international law, limited and responsible use of force, civilian protection and humanitarian principles, and resolving issues through mutually accepted dialogue and mechanisms. Thailand calls on all parties to reduce tensions and work toward lasting peace.