Thailand, Cambodia ceasefire after weeks of deadly border clashes

Thailand and Cambodia have announced an immediate ceasefire, bringing a temporary halt to nearly three weeks of violent clashes along their disputed border, which have left dozens dead and displaced almost one million civilians.

The agreement, confirmed in a joint statement by the defence ministers of both countries, freezes the front lines and allows civilians in affected areas to return home.

The ceasefire took effect at noon local time on Saturday. After 72 hours of adherence, Thailand will release 18 Cambodian soldiers held since July.

The breakthrough followed days of negotiations, supported diplomatically by China and the United States. The agreement also includes plans for the removal of landmines and prioritises the safe return of displaced residents.

Thailand’s Defence Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit described the ceasefire as a test of Cambodia’s sincerity, warning that Thailand reserves the right to self-defence under international law if violations occur.

The latest ceasefire comes after previous agreements, including one brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump in July, failed to hold, leading to renewed fighting. Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of initiating attacks. Thailand reported that two of its soldiers were injured in Si Sa Ket province, while Cambodia insisted its forces did not retaliate in Preah Vihear province.

The border dispute, which has persisted for over a century, escalated earlier this year after a series of violent incidents, including clashes over a disputed temple. Recent fighting has caused extensive military and civilian losses, with nationalist sentiment inflaming tensions on both sides.