Ceasefire Declared Between Thailand and Cambodia Amid Ongoing Tensions
Thailand and Cambodia have reached a ceasefire after five days of intense border clashes, which resulted in 38 deaths and displaced hundreds of thousands. However, conflicting reports of renewed violence are raising concerns about the sustainability of the truce, reports 24brussels.
The ceasefire agreement was signed on Monday in Malaysia, intending to halt the bloodiest conflict between the neighboring nations in over a decade. Shortly after the ceasefire was announced, Thailand accused Cambodian forces of violating the agreement at multiple sites overnight. Military spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvaree described these incidents as deliberate actions aimed at undermining trust between the two countries.
In contrast, Cambodian officials denied the allegations. Maly Socheata, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense, asserted that there had been no new fighting, casting doubt on the ceasefire’s credibility.
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai attempted to reassure the public by stating that, “Right now things are calm,” while reiterating the need for displaced residents to remain away from their homes until further notice. The international community, including the United States and China, played a role in facilitating the ceasefire negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump warning that bilateral trade talks would cease unless hostilities ended.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim labeled the ceasefire as a crucial first step toward de-escalation and restoration of peace and security. A joint border committee is set to convene in Cambodia on August 4 to further discuss measures to prevent conflicts.
Despite the official statements, the situation remains precarious. The acting Prime Minister emphasized that the ceasefire does not signify an end to the border conflict. He noted that while Thailand’s commitment to peace is evident, mistrust and tensions could resurface.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the ceasefire agreement and urged both nations to fully adhere to it. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed optimism regarding the truce, indicating that it would create opportunities for displaced communities to return and for both countries to rebuild trust.
Military discussions occurred on Tuesday, though many details remain undisclosed. Observers reported a notable cessation of violence shortly before the ceasefire took effect, marking a temporary respite in the ongoing conflict.
As communities remain displaced, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether this ceasefire will lead to a lasting peace or merely a temporary pause in hostilities.
