Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have reached a boiling point, with both nations recalling their ambassadors and closing border crossings after a Thai soldier lost a leg in a landmine explosion. The incident, which occurred Wednesday in Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province, has fueled a fierce dispute over contested border territories, escalating a conflict that began with an armed clash in May that left a Cambodian soldier dead.

Thailand accuses Cambodia of planting Russian-made landmines in violation of the Ottawa Treaty, which bans anti-personnel mines. The Thai army claims the mines were laid along mutually agreed safe paths, posing a “serious threat to peace.” Cambodia denies the allegations, asserting the explosion occurred in its Preah Vihear province and blaming Thailand for breaching a 2000 patrol agreement. Cambodian officials argue that unexploded ordnance from past wars litters the region, rejecting claims of new mine placements.

The fallout has been swift and severe. Thailand expelled Cambodia’s ambassador and closed northeastern border checkpoints. Cambodia retaliated Thursday by downgrading diplomatic ties, recalling all embassy staff from Bangkok, and demanding Thai diplomats leave Cambodia. Both nations have imposed trade and cultural bans, with Cambodia halting Thai fruit and vegetable imports, banning Thai media, and cutting fuel and internet links.

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Nationalist fervor is inflaming the crisis, compounded by Thailand’s political turmoil. The Thai prime minister, suspended since July 1 over ethics probes tied to the dispute, has left acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to navigate the escalating conflict. Further diplomatic protests and measures are under consideration, raising fears of deeper instability in the region.

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