The sudden decision by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul came after a blast injured two Thai soldiers on patrol at the border between the two countries.
The Nation quoted Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul as saying: What we are pursuing needs to be temporarily suspended until everything is clear. This shows that the threat to national security has not declined. In that context, all further actions must be suspended.
Anutin also affirmed his full support for the Thai military and said he had directed the forces to take appropriate steps.
Immediately after the Prime Minister's statement, Siripong Government Spokesperson Angkasakulkiat announced another direct consequence: The return of Cambodian prisoners scheduled to take place on November 12 will also be suspended.
When asked whether the suspended joint statement is indefinite, he said: "We cannot say it is indefinite, discussions will be necessary. For now, everything must stop until the blast is completely resolved."
This development is a significant step back in the relationship between the two countries. Just last October, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet signed a historic peace deal under the witness of US President Donald Trump, on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The document outlines further steps towards a peaceful solution to border tensions. The two sides have pledged to reduce the escalation of tensions, restore trust, and agree to reduce military escalation under the supervision of the ASEAN Observer Group, including withdrawing heavy weapons from the border.
The October deal came after armed clashes broke out along the disputed border on July 24. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim then mediated a ceasefire on July 28.
However, the situation has remained tense since then, with some incidents, mainly Thai soldiers stepping on the mines. The Thai Foreign Ministry also accused the Cambodian army of firing infantry guns and pomegranate guns into Thailand at the end of September, putting Thai forces on alert. The latest blasting case appeared to be a drop of water that filled the cup, forcing Bangkok to take tough action.
