Thailand and Cambodia Agree Ceasefire After Weeks of Deadly Clashes

Published: 27 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate ceasefire, ending weeks of intense border clashes that resulted in the deaths of at least 41 people and displaced nearly a million. The announcement, made on Saturday by the defense ministers of both nations, marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing border dispute that has escalated throughout December.

The ceasefire, which took effect at noon local time (05:00 GMT), includes several key terms to ensure de-escalation of the situation. Both nations have committed to freezing troop movements, which should allow civilians who have been forced to flee the conflict zones to return home. The joint statement issued by both countries also calls for an end to attacks on civilian areas, infrastructure, and military positions on either side.

Under the ceasefire agreement, once it holds for 72 hours, Thailand has agreed to release 18 Cambodian soldiers who were captured during earlier clashes. This release will be conducted in accordance with the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, an agreement signed in October after US President Donald Trump intervened to help bring about a temporary peace between the two nations.

The truce was negotiated after a series of talks between Thai and Cambodian officials. The border conflict has been fueled by long-standing territorial disputes, which have continued to flare up throughout the year. Tensions between the two countries first began escalating in May, after the death of a Cambodian soldier in a border skirmish. The situation worsened in July, leading to several days of intense fighting that resulted in the loss of life and the displacement of thousands of civilians.

In November, the fragile ceasefire that had been agreed upon after international mediation was abruptly halted by Thailand, citing ongoing security concerns. Despite this setback, diplomatic efforts continued, and both countries were able to come to the table once again. Cambodian officials have claimed that Thai forces instigated the recent round of fighting by attacking first, while Thailand has blamed Cambodia for firing on its troops, killing one soldier.

Throughout the month of December, the conflict saw further escalation, including Thai airstrikes on a disputed region in Cambodia. The Thai Air Force targeted what it called a “fortified military position,” while Cambodia accused Thailand of indiscriminate attacks on civilian houses.

Both nations have now committed to adhering to the terms of the ceasefire, which includes measures to prevent further provocation. “Both sides must avoid unprovoked firing or advancement of troops towards the other side’s positions,” the statement read. The two countries have also agreed to halt the movement of military forces in the border regions, with a specific focus on avoiding any activities that could lead to a renewed conflict.

While the ceasefire is a welcome step toward peace, experts caution that it remains fragile. The history of border disputes between Thailand and Cambodia stretches back more than a century, and even the smallest incident could reignite hostilities. Nevertheless, the agreement provides a glimmer of hope for the civilians who have borne the brunt of the violence and displacement.

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is just the latest in a series of border disputes in Southeast Asia, a region marked by complex territorial claims and historical tensions. The situation has drawn the attention of international mediators, including the United States and Malaysia, both of whom have been actively involved in the peace process.

The future of the ceasefire will depend largely on the willingness of both sides to uphold the terms of the agreement. As the situation stands, both countries are hopeful that the immediate cessation of hostilities will lay the groundwork for a more lasting peace, but skepticism remains due to the deep-rooted nature of the conflict.