Thailand, Cambodia Agree to Ceasefire After Border Clashes

Thailand and Cambodia have reached an immediate and unconditional ceasefire

After five tense days of deadly cross-border fighting, Thailand and Cambodia have reached an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, bringing hope to tens of thousands displaced by escalating violence. The announcement came late Monday during emergency peace talks mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who stood flanked by the Thai and Cambodian leaders as he declared the midnight ceasefire agreement.

"This is a vital first step to de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security," said Anwar, emphasizing the urgency of halting the growing humanitarian crisis.

The violence, rooted in a century-old territorial dispute, erupted again in early May after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border clash. The situation worsened when a Thai soldier lost his leg to a landmine, prompting Thailand to shut several key border crossings, expel Cambodia’s ambassador, and recall its own.

Artillery exchanges and gunfire rocked villages on both sides of the border. Thailand's military reported civilian casualties from rocket fire, while Cambodia confirmed at least 13 deaths, including eight civilians. In total, 33 people have died, with hundreds more wounded and over 30,000 displaced.

The conflict also triggered economic disruption. Thailand restricted access for its citizens and tourists into Cambodia, while Cambodia retaliated by banning several Thai imports, including fruits, electricity, and internet services. Cambodian media reported a mass return of workers from Thailand amid growing insecurity.

Diplomatic efforts initially faltered. Thailand rejected Malaysia’s mediation, only reconsidering after U.S. President Donald Trump suspended tariff negotiations with Thailand, insisting, “Fighting STOPS first.”

Despite ongoing shelling during the early stages of the peace talks, the negotiations in Kuala Lumpur yielded a ceasefire deal. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has agreed to assist in monitoring compliance, with Malaysia offering immediate support.

The terms of the ceasefire include the withdrawal of heavily reinforced troops from the disputed border zones and the implementation of independent monitoring mechanisms to prevent future flare-ups.

Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed the ceasefire, calling the meeting a “very good step” and expressing hope that it would lead to lasting peace. Cambodia had been advocating for a ceasefire since Friday, as Thai military advances began overwhelming its border defenses.

Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai pledged to uphold the agreement, stating briefly, “We honour this commitment in the interest of our people.”

While the ceasefire is a relief for civilians caught in the crossfire, experts caution that deep-seated territorial disputes remain unresolved. A permanent peace will likely require international arbitration, historical land agreement reviews, and long-term trust-building between the two nations.

ASEAN’s next challenge will be ensuring accountability, border demilitarization, and continued dialogue to transform this ceasefire from a temporary truce into a durable peace accord.

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