Thailand Postpones Release of Captured Cambodian Soldiers Over Alleged Ceasefire Violations

Thailand Delays Transfer of Captured Soldiers

Thailand has announced the postponement of the transfer of 18 captured Cambodian soldiers amid ongoing border conflict between the two nations, citing alleged violations of a renewed peace agreement. This delay comes after the ceasefire exceeded a 72-hour deadline that was intended to trigger the release of the soldiers.

Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura stated on Tuesday that Bangkok has reconsidered the timing for handing over the captured soldiers after Cambodian drones entered Thai airspace on Sunday evening. "Considerations regarding the date and timing of the release depend on security aspects," he added, stating that the handover could "take place soon."

Thai military officials previously accused Cambodia of violating the terms of the ceasefire due to issues related to drones, noting that more than 250 drones had intruded into its territory.

Cambodian government spokesperson Pen Bona remarked that the situation is being monitored and that the government has not yet reacted. The transfer of the captured soldiers was scheduled to occur if the ceasefire, which came into effect Saturday afternoon, was respected for 72 hours. Although the ceasefire has been maintained thus far, the retrieval of the soldiers has been impacted by a recent incident in which a Thai soldier lost a limb due to a landmine explosion. This incident has been one of the factors contributing to the resurgence of conflict, which reignited last month.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that the ceasefire is fragile and requires both sides to avoid escalating tensions. "The ceasefire was recently agreed upon, so there exists fragility," Sihasak told reporters. "We must avoid provocations or actions that could undermine the ceasefire." S hundreds of people in the Cambodian city of Poipet, located near the border, awaited the distribution of essential aid, while some Cambodians returned home, and others expressed fears or were unable to do so. "Some say they will remain in displaced persons camps, as they are still unsure if this ceasefire will hold," added Al Jazeera reporter Assed Baig.