Border Tensions Continue as Thailand Delays Release of Cambodian Soldiers

Thailand has announced a postponement in transferring 18 Cambodian soldiers captured during ongoing border disputes, citing alleged breaches of a renewed ceasefire agreement. This ceasefire, which has been in effect since Saturday, was meant to pave the way for their release after a 72-hour observation period.

According to Nikorndej Balankura, a spokesperson for Thailand’s Foreign Ministry, the change in the timeline for the handover is primarily due to claims of Cambodian drones violating Thai airspace on Sunday evening. He stated during a press conference, “The consideration of date and time of the release depends on the security side,” while suggesting that the transfer could occur soon but would require reevaluation.

In previous statements, Thailand’s military accused Cambodia of flouting the ceasefire conditions, reporting that over 250 drones entered Thai territory on the night in question. In response to the delay, Cambodian government spokesperson Pen Bona remarked that the situation is under observation, yet the government has not formally reacted.

The capture of the troops stemmed from a recent outbreak of conflict between the nations. An agreement to release the soldiers hinged on a stable ceasefire, effective from noon on Saturday (05:00 GMT), which should last for three days.

While the ceasefire remains intact thus far, it has halted 20 days of hostilities resulting in over 100 fatalities and displacing more than half a million individuals on both sides. Nonetheless, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs filed a formal protest following an incident where a Thai soldier sustained serious injuries due to a landmine explosion in a border region.

Landmines have played a crucial role in the resurgence of conflict, which escalated in the previous month after a brief five-day skirmish in July was quelled by a peace agreement brokered by the United States and Malaysia.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized that the ceasefire remains precarious. “The ceasefire has only just been agreed, so there is fragility,” he noted. He urged both sides to refrain from actions that could provoke further tensions.

Displacement Concerns Persist Amidst Ceasefire

Reporting from Poipet, a Cambodian city close to the Thai border, Al Jazeera’s Assed Baig described an uneasy tranquility prevailing since the ceasefire took hold. Large crowds have gathered, awaiting the distribution of critical supplies, while some Cambodians cautiously attempt to return home.

However, many remain hesitant to leave displacement camps due to lingering fears about the ceasefire’s durability. “Some say they will stay put because they’re still not certain that this ceasefire will hold,” Baig noted, referring to the community’s past experiences with similar agreements breaking down.

Others are unable to return as Thai soldiers continue to occupy or remain near their villages, while many individuals find that their homes are no longer habitable due to the conflict’s devastation. Under the ceasefire’s terms, both nations have committed to keeping their forces in their current positions.

“Whilst there is calm, nobody here is calling this ceasefire stable or permanent yet,” Baig concluded, illustrating the ongoing uncertainty faced by the community.