Ceasefire Achieved Between Thailand and Cambodia After Intense Border Clashes

Sun Dec 28 2025 11:11:38 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A ceasefire has been established between Thailand and Cambodia, effective immediately, following weeks of deadly confrontations that displaced nearly one million individuals. This agreement aims to stabilize the region and facilitate the return of affected civilians.

Thailand and Cambodia have officially enacted a ceasefire along their border to end almost three weeks of violent clashes which displaced approximately one million people. The ceasefire, validated by defense ministers of both nations, facilitates the withdrawal of military elements from the frontline and the safe return of civilians. Key diplomatic players, including the US and China, played significant roles in facilitating the ceasefire. As tensions remain high, the international community observes the situation with hope for lasting peace.

A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia has come into effect along the border, where almost three weeks of deadly clashes have forced nearly one million people from their homes.

In a joint statement, the defense ministers of the two countries agreed to freeze the front lines where they are now, ban reinforcements and allow civilians living in border areas to return as soon as possible.

The ceasefire took effect at noon local time (05:00 GMT) on Saturday. Once it has been in place for 72 hours, 18 Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand since July will be released, the statement said.

The breakthrough came after days of talks between the two countries, with diplomatic encouragement from China and the US.

The agreement prioritizes getting the displaced back to their homes, and also includes an agreement to remove landmines.

Thailand's Defence Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit described the ceasefire as a test for the other party's sincerity.

UN human rights chief Volker Türk expressed hope that the ceasefire will pave the way for lasting peace, while an EU spokesperson urged good faith in its implementation.

The previous ceasefire, negotiated in October, collapsed after fresh clashes erupted, with both sides blaming each other for the breakdown.

The Thai army claimed its troops responded to fire from Cambodian forces, while Cambodia insisted it was attacked first.

Tensions have escalated amidst historical disputes, and while the ceasefire is a positive step, the path to lasting peace remains uncertain due to nationalistic sentiments and recent losses incurred by the Cambodian military.