A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia officially began at midnight on Monday (1700 GMT), bringing a pause to five days of deadly border clashes that killed at least 38 people, mostly civilians, and displaced over 300,000 residents.
The agreement followed high-stakes talks in Putrajaya, Malaysia, hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and backed by diplomatic efforts from the United States and China.
What Triggered the Conflict?
Tensions erupted on July 24, with both sides blaming each other for escalating violence. Clashes quickly intensified from small arms fire to artillery shelling and Thai airstrikes, including the deployment of an F-16 fighter jet.
The violence stemmed from longstanding border disputes, including the killing of a Cambodian soldier in May, and recent landmine incidents that injured Thai troops.
Global Leaders Push for Peace
International pressure played a key role in brokering the ceasefire.
- U.S. President Donald Trump warned both sides that trade talks would not resume if fighting continued.
- Trump later posted on Truth Social, calling the truce a success: “By ending this War, we have saved thousands of lives … I am proud to be the President of PEACE!”
- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called the agreement a “vital first step toward de-escalation and peace.”
Casualties and Human Impact
The five-day war caused significant destruction:
- At least 38 deaths, with most being civilians.
- Border towns like Sisaket, Thailand, saw homes destroyed and roads deserted.
- Over 300,000 displaced people fled the fighting.
- Aid centers housed evacuees, with many residents, like 54-year-old Nong Ngarmsri, expressing desperation to return home.
Trade Talks Back on Track
Trump announced that U.S. trade negotiations with both Thailand and Cambodia would now resume.
Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayacha expressed gratitude, calling Trump’s role decisive in resolving the crisis.
Longstanding Tensions Far From Over
While the ceasefire holds for now, both nations continue to accuse each other:
- Thailand blamed Cambodia for laying landmines and targeting civilians.
- Cambodia denied all allegations and accused Thailand of “unprovoked aggression.”
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged China’s role and praised the outcome of the talks as a diplomatic win.
Conclusion: A Fragile Peace, but a Step Forward
The ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia marks a significant but fragile breakthrough in a region plagued by decades of unresolved border tensions.
With diplomacy from Malaysia, the U.S., and China, and firm international pressure, both nations now have an opportunity to pursue lasting peace and revive economic ties. However, true stability will depend on sustained communication, mutual trust, and accountability for civilian safety.
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