Tensions Rise as Guatemalan Forces Confront Belize Defence Force on Sarstoon River

On April 25, 2024, a tense confrontation unfolded between the Guatemalan Armed Forces and the Belize Defence Force (BDF) on the Sarstoon River, as Guatemalan forces demanded the BDF leave the area. The incident has sparked concerns and calls for verification exercises by the Organization of American States (OAS) to help manage security along the shared border.

Why this matters: The ongoing tensions between Belize and Guatemala have significant implications for regional security and stability, and the involvement of the OAS highlights the need for international cooperation in resolving border disputes. If left unchecked, these tensions could escalate into more serious conflicts, affecting not only the two countries but also the broader region.

Florencio Marin Junior, Belize's Minister of National Defense, emphasized the importance of establishing a protocol for managing the shared border, stating, "It is extremely important because we do share a border so that will not change. It is essential that we both are able to do our duties together and to will be even better if we coordinate how we try to maintain security in the Sarstoon." Marin Junior reiterated Belize's commitment to its sovereignty, asserting, "The Belize Defense Force, the ministry, this government has never compromised on the sovereignty of Belize. We will do our work."

The confrontation occurred as the Guatemalan Armed Forces increased patrols to stop perceived incursions from the BDF. The BDF is working with the OAS to obtain verifications before acting in certain areas, particularly within the adjacency zones along the border. However, Minister Marin expressed concerns over the long waiting times for these verifications, stating, "Sometimes yes, they are slow, but we need the verification."

The OAS verification process is part of a confidence-building measure aimed at ensuring security in the Sarstoon region. Belize and Guatemala have a long-standing territorial dispute, with Guatemala claiming parts of Belize as its own. The two countries have agreed to resolve the dispute through the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with both nations holding referendums to approve taking the matter to the ICJ.

The April 25 incident on the Sarstoon River underscores the ongoing tensions between Belize and Guatemala along their shared border. As the OAS works to verify the situation and promote confidence-building measures, Minister Marin's statements emphasize Belize's commitment to its sovereignty while acknowledging the need for coordination and cooperation in maintaining security in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Tensions rise between Guatemalan Armed Forces and Belize Defence Force on Sarstoon River.
• OAS verification exercises sought to manage security along shared border.
• Belize commits to sovereignty, seeks coordination with Guatemala for border security.
• Long-standing territorial dispute between Belize and Guatemala to be resolved by ICJ.
• OAS verification process aims to build confidence and ensure security in Sarstoon region.