BANGKOK – International observers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have verified that new landmines have been laid along the contested Thai-Cambodian border, escalating regional tensions and complicating diplomatic efforts. The confirmation came from Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, who revealed the findings on Thursday while announcing plans for renewed peace talks between the neighboring nations.

Thailand Accuses Cambodia of ‘Hostile Acts’ in Border Dispute

The Malaysian official disclosed that ASEAN observer teams stationed in both countries had identified newly planted anti-personnel devices, though he refrained from attributing responsibility to either side. This independent verification marks a significant development in the border dispute, providing the first international confirmation of fresh mine deployment in the area. The announcement followed a corrected report from Malaysian state news agency Bernama, which had initially erroneously stated that no landmines had been discovered.

The Thai army presented reports of the ASEAN observer teams (AOT) in Thailand and Cambodia today, confirming that the latest landmine explosion in Si Sa Ket province on Monday was caused by a new landmine.

The army’s move was to counter yesterday’s report by Bernama, Malaysia’s… pic.twitter.com/WosYxpLw45

— Thai PBS World (@ThaiPBSWorld) November 14, 2025

The border crisis intensified earlier this week when four Thai soldiers were injured by a landmine explosion during a routine patrol in Si Sa Ket province, prompting Thailand to suspend its recently signed peace accord with Cambodia. The Thai Foreign Ministry has announced it will escort ASEAN observers to the blast site in Huai Thamariya and to Ban Nong Ya Kaew in Sa Kaeo province, where an armed clash occurred on Wednesday.

Thai and Cambodian Forces Exchange Fire in Fresh Border Clash

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that both Thai and Cambodian leaders have expressed commitment to peaceful resolution during separate discussions. With trust between the two countries severely damaged, Malaysia has offered to host new negotiations in a neutral setting to facilitate dialogue and prevent further escalation of the conflict.

-Thailand News (TN)