Thailand: Possible Cease-Fire in Troubled South?

No Comments | July 23rd, 2008 | Trackback

After four and a half years and some 3,000 deaths, a glimmer of hope for a resolution of the Muslim insurgency in southern Thailand appeared via a spokesman claiming to represent all of the main militant groups. He announced a unilateral cease-fire and claimed that anyone who continued the violent struggle would be considered a criminal. Until now the insurgents have revealed little about who they are or what they want, but a retired Thai general has reportedly been in talks with them since last year. In other news, tensions remain high on the Cambodian border in a dispute over Khao Phra Wihan temple, also called Preah Vihear. The two countries are disputing control of a 1.8-square-mile area around the temple, which was recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Troops from both countries are stationed there now but both sides say they will avoid conflict. The temple is closed pending a resolution of the dispute. On the Thai side the road is blocked five miles from the entrance.