Thailand and Cambodia Agree to 'Immediate' Ceasefire After Weeks of Deadly Border Clashes
Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an 'immediate' ceasefire following weeks of violent clashes along their shared border, according to a joint statement signed by the defense ministers of both nations. The cessation of hostilities, which came into effect at noon local time on Saturday, December 27, 2025, pledges to halt all forms of attacks, including those targeted at civilians, civilian objects, infrastructures, and military objectives on both sides. The agreement follows weeks of deadly clashes that have claimed over 100 lives and displaced more than half a million people on both sides.
Background and Context
The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which reignited in December, shattered an earlier truce and has resulted in dozens of deaths and the displacement of nearly a million people over a three-week period. This longstanding dispute, which flared up violently again at the beginning of December, had previously been placed under a truce in July. The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800-kilometer border.
Key Developments and Details
The joint statement, signed by Thai Defence Minister Natthaphon Nakrphanit and his Cambodian counterpart Tea Seiha, ended 20 days of fighting. Both sides agree to an immediate ceasefire after the time of signature of this Joint Statement with effect from 12 hours noon (local time) on 27 December, 2025, involving all types of weapons, including attacks on civilians, civilian objects and infrastructures, and military objectives of either side, in all cases and all areas,
the statement read.
In addition to the ceasefire, the two countries have also agreed to request the joint border committee to resume survey and demarcation works as soon as possible in accordance with the existing agreements between the two countries to achieve lasting peace along the border.
Implications and Reactions
Despite the ceasefire, the impact of the conflict has been severe, with estimates of displaced persons ranging from half a million to three million. The deadly conflict has not only claimed lives but also strained resources and exacerbated tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
The ceasefire, which could pave the way for an end to the fighting, has been welcomed by the international community, which has been closely monitoring the situation and advocating for peace talks.
Current Status and Conclusion
While the ceasefire brings a temporary respite, the long-term resolution of this border dispute remains uncertain. Previous efforts to reinstate a ceasefire have been fruitless, and the current agreement is seen as a crucial step towards finally resolving the border conflict.
However, the situation remains volatile, with the need for effective implementation of the peace agreement and successful resumption of border demarcation works. The success of this ceasefire may well be determined by the willingness of both parties to adhere to it and work towards a lasting peace.