Following a period of heightened tensions, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate ceasefire in their ongoing border dispute. The agreement, brokered through mediation by Malaysia, is intended to halt hostilities and pave the way for de-escalation.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire would take effect from midnight local time, following discussions with the leaders of both nations. He described the agreement as a “significant first step towards restoring peace and security” in the region.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet characterized the meetings as “very good” expressing hope for a swift end to the fighting. Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai affirmed that the ceasefire was negotiated “in good faith” and emphasized Thailand’s commitment to pursuing a peaceful resolution.
The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has existed since the 1950s and recently escalated in the past week. Thailand has reported 22 fatalities as a result of the clashes, including 14 civilian deaths. Official casualty figures from Cambodia have yet to be released. The ceasefire represents a tentative move towards stability, though long-term resolution of the underlying issues remains a complex challenge.
