Thailand and Cambodia agree to an immediate ceasefire after a bloody conflict
Thailand and Cambodia announced a comprehensive agreement for an immediate ceasefire in a crucial step toward ending the cycle of violence, according to a joint statement issued on Saturday. This agreement brings to a close weeks of intense border clashes that have left dozens dead and triggered a widespread humanitarian crisis.
According to official statistics from both sides, the three-week military operations resulted in the deaths of at least 47 people, while more than a million civilians were forced to flee their homes to escape the crossfire. These clashes witnessed the extensive use of heavy weapons, including artillery and tanks, as well as the deployment of drones and fighter jets, leading to the conflict spreading to almost all border provinces.
Agreement terms and timeline
The statement, signed by the two countries' defense ministers at a border crossing on the Thai side, stipulates that the ceasefire will take effect immediately, becoming fully effective from 12:00 noon (05:00 GMT) on December 27, 2025. The agreement includes a comprehensive ban on the use of all types of weapons, and a cessation of attacks on civilians, infrastructure, and military targets in all areas without exception.
The agreement also included an immediate freeze on military movements and the facilitation of the return of displaced civilians to their homes as quickly as possible. As a gesture of goodwill, Thailand pledged to return 18 captured Cambodian soldiers within 72 hours, and agreed to cooperate on demining and combating cybercrime.
Historical context and chronic tensions
This latest conflict cannot be separated from the long history of border tensions between the two neighboring countries. The shared border, large sections of which remain poorly demarcated, has long been a flashpoint, particularly the area surrounding the ancient Preah Vihear temple. Historically, the region has witnessed sporadic clashes, most notably between 2008 and 2011. Despite rulings by the International Court of Justice attempting to regulate sovereignty in the disputed areas, nationalist and political sensitivities frequently reignite the crisis.
The importance of regional stability
This agreement holds paramount importance that extends far beyond bilateral borders, casting a long shadow over the stability of the entire Southeast Asian region. Stability between Thailand and Cambodia is a cornerstone of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and any prolonged conflict threatens economic integration and intra-regional trade. Furthermore, ending hostilities averts a refugee crisis that could burden neighboring countries and the international community.
International reactions welcoming
Internationally, the agreement was widely welcomed. Thai Defense Minister Nataphon Narakvanit described the ceasefire as “a gateway to a peaceful solution,” noting that the first three days would be a test of the parties’ seriousness. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also welcomed the agreement, considering it a positive step toward alleviating the suffering of civilians. The European Union and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed their hope that this cessation would pave the way for lasting peace and mutual trust.
