Thai PM Halts Cambodia Accords After Landmine Injures Soldier

BANGKOK, Nov 10 (TNA) - Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Monday ordered an immediate and indefinite suspension of all agreements with Cambodia after a Thai soldier lost his leg to a landmine near the disputed border. 

Speaking to reporters, Anutin said the move was necessary because the antagonism and threat to Thailand's security had clearly not diminished despite previous understandings. He instructed the Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs to halt all existing cooperation and ensure that only actions that serve Thailand's national interests are pursued.

The premier's directive came after two Thai soldiers were injured, one losing his right foot, when they stepped on a landmine during a patrol in the Huai Ta Maria area of Sisaket province, opposite the Preah Vihear temple. 

Anutin confirmed he would visit the injured troops on Tuesday.

The suspension notably includes the planned release of 18 Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand.

Government Spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat later confirmed that the Prime Minister was deeply uneasy and had instructed the ministries to lodge a strong protest with the Interim Observer Team (IOT), vowing to pursue the matter to the fullest extent. -819 (TNA)