The Caribbean Neighborhood (CARICOM) has known as on Guatemala to right away halt army actions in Belizean territory after a collection of reported incursions within the Sarstoon River earlier this month.
Based on the Authorities of Belize, between September 10 and 13, 2025, members of the Guatemalan Armed Forces (GAF) illegally entered Belizean territory, hoisted a Guatemalan flag on Belizean soil, tried to ram a Belizean army vessel, and obstructed Belizeans from freely navigating the river. The Sarstoon, which kinds a part of the border between the 2 international locations, has lengthy been a degree of rivalry.
CARICOM described the incidents as “flagrant violations” of Belize’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and warned that such actions may heighten tensions and threat escalating into armed battle. Regardless of the provocations, Belizean army officers reportedly responded with restraint whereas firmly asserting the nation’s sovereignty and authorized place.
The regional physique urged Guatemala to make sure its army “desist from illegally getting into Belizean territory and from aggressive actions which can elevate tensions between the international locations, escalate right into a army battle, and endanger the protection of individuals who use the Sarstoon River.”
CARICOM additionally recalled that each Belize and Guatemala have an obligation to chorus from provocative actions whereas Guatemala’s territorial declare is earlier than the Worldwide Courtroom of Justice (ICJ). It reiterated its name for the 2 international locations to urgently finalize a cooperation mechanism for managing the Sarstoon River and adjoining maritime areas with the help of the Organisation of American States (OAS).
Emphasizing the Caribbean’s long-standing dedication to peace, CARICOM reaffirmed its “unwavering help for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and safety of Belize” and famous that each one member states stay dedicated to upholding the area as a Zone of Peace.
