A diplomatic disagreement has flared up between two neighboring countries. On July 21, 2025, Cambodia strongly denied claims that its actions led to injuries of soldiers from a neighboring nation. The accusations involved Cambodia allegedly placing new anti-personnel landmines near their shared border. Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation called these claims “baseless and without evidence.”
Cambodia stressed that the incident actually happened within its own land. This specific spot is Morokot Village in Chom Ksan District, located in Preah Vihear Province. International bodies recognize this area as Cambodian territory. Phnom Penh insists it strictly follows the Ottawa Convention. This international agreement bans the use of landmines.
The country also pointed out its long history of clearing old war mines. It has worked with the United Nations on demining missions in other countries after conflicts. These facts show Cambodia’s dedication to removing landmines, not planting new ones.
Cambodia then turned the tables. It accused the neighbor’s soldiers of breaking a 2000 agreement. This pact states both sides must work together in areas where the border isn’t clear. Cambodia claims its neighbor’s troops strayed from their agreed patrol path. They reportedly went into Cambodian territory without permission. Cambodia views this as a breach of its sovereignty. It also believes such actions hurt the trust built between the two nations.
Despite clear facts, Cambodia said its neighbor continued spreading incorrect information. They falsely claimed to have cleared mines in the area where their soldiers got hurt. Cambodia stated its own soldiers are still there, and no demining work by the neighbor has happened. The area is part of Cambodia. Instead of taking responsibility, the neighbor is sharing false details with its people and the global community.
Cambodia urged its neighbor to stop spreading misleading information. It suggested a peaceful solution. The best way to settle the border dispute, Cambodia said, is to take it to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ previously ruled on the Preah Vihear Temple case in 1962, with more interpretations in 2013. Cambodia believes peace and international law are key to lasting stability for both countries and the wider region.