Thailand Delays Release of Cambodian Troops Over Alleged Truce Breaches

Thailand Delays Transfer of Captured Cambodian Soldiers Amid Border Conflict

A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia has held since Saturday, but tensions remain high over alleged breaches of the agreement. The Thai government has delayed the transfer of 18 captured Cambodian soldiers due to concerns about drone flights over the border.

According to Nikorndej Balankura, spokesperson for the Thai Foreign Ministry, the decision was made following the intrusion of Cambodian drones into Thai airspace on Sunday night. The handover of the troops is now expected to take place “soon,” but no specific date has been set.

Cambodia’s government has stated that it is monitoring the situation and has no immediate reaction to the delay. The truce, which came into effect at noon on Saturday, was intended to last for 72 hours before the transfer of the soldiers would be considered complete.

The ceasefire has held for over 72 hours, bringing an end to 20 days of fighting that resulted in over 100 deaths and displaced more than half a million people. However, landmine incidents have continued to pose a threat, with a Thai soldier losing a limb on Monday in a landmine blast at the border.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has warned that the ceasefire is fragile and requires both sides to avoid inflaming tensions. Meanwhile, hundreds of people have gathered in the Cambodian city of Poipet, near the border with Thailand, awaiting distribution of essential aid amidst the truce.

Source: Al Jazeera