A fragile ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia faced immediate challenges just hours after taking effect, as both sides traded accusations of violating the agreement aimed at halting weeks of deadly clashes along their disputed border. The truce, brokered by Malaysia on Monday, sought to end a conflict rooted in century-old territorial disputes linked to colonial-era maps, which reignited in late May and escalated into military engagements last week.
Thai military officials claimed on Tuesday that Cambodian forces conducted “disturbances and weapon attacks in multiple areas” shortly after the ceasefire began. Thai Army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree asserted that Thai troops exercised restraint but responded with “appropriate retaliatory measures” in self-defense. Cambodia’s military swiftly rejected the allegations, with spokesperson Maly Socheata insisting their forces “strictly adhered to the ceasefire terms.”
Top military commanders from both nations held unannounced talks Tuesday morning, as stipulated in the truce, though no details were disclosed. A joint border committee is slated to meet next week to address the broader dispute. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reaffirmed commitments to resolving tensions diplomatically, emphasizing the human toll of the clashes. At least 37 people, including civilians, have died since late May, while hundreds of thousands fled homes near the contested frontier.
International actors played a behind-the-scenes role in de-escalation efforts. During the ceasefire announcement in Putrajaya, both leaders acknowledged U.S. President Donald Trump and China for facilitating dialogue. Trump previously stated he leveraged trade negotiations with the two nations to push for peace, though specifics of the discussions remain unclear.
The recent violence underscores the lingering volatility of Southeast Asia’s border disputes, many tracing back to poorly defined colonial boundaries. Analysts note that while immediate hostilities have paused, long-term resolution hinges on addressing historical grievances and fostering bilateral trust. With displaced families awaiting stability and regional economies impacted, the coming weeks will test whether diplomatic channels can sustain the fragile peace.
