Thailand-Cambodia Truce Pact Ignites Peace, Effective Today
A ceasefire ends weeks of fighting on Thailand‑Cambodia border
On Tuesday the Thai and Cambodian governments activated an unconditional truce that will suspend hostilities along their 800‑kilometre frontier. The agreement was signed in Putrajaya, Malaysia, the host country that also hosted the diplomatic talks.
Key terms of the truce
- Combat will cease at midnight Monday, allowing a five‑day ceasefire to take effect.
- Both sides agreed the truce will cover all disputed zones, including a handful of ancient temples that sit on the border.
- Commanders on both sides will meet at 07:00 am (0000 GMT) to monitor the ceasefire.
- A joint committee will convene in Cambodia on August 4 to address any lingering tensions.
Impact on civilians and displaced families
Since Thursday, jets, rockets and artillery have killed at least 38 people and displaced roughly 300,000 more. The violence has forced nearly 140,000 Cambodian residents to flee their homes, while over 138,000 Thai border dwellers have sought refuge elsewhere.
“I miss my home and my belongings,” said Phean Neth, a 45‑year‑old Cambodian evacuee. “I am so happy that I can’t describe it,” he added, expressing relief that the ceasefire will halt the fighting.
International support and trade talks
The ceasefire was described by the joint statement from Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia as “a vital first step towards de‑escalation and the restoration of peace and security.”
Both governments are courting the United States for trade deals to avert the president’s threat of high tariffs. The U.S. State Department confirmed officials were on the ground during the negotiation process. China also participated actively in the talks.
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai insisted the ceasefire must be carried out in good faith by both sides. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet thanked President Trump for his “decisive” support.
Background and military claims
Earlier this week the Thai military accused Cambodia of deploying snipers in contested temples and increasing troop presence along the border, while also claiming that Cambodian forces had been firing rockets at Thai territory. Thailand confirmed 11 soldiers and 14 civilians have been killed; Cambodia reported eight civilian and five military deaths. However, Thai forces have returned 12 Cambodian soldier bodies recovered in combat.
Nationalist sentiments have surged, prompting Thai authorities to advise citizens to refrain from violence against Cambodian migrants living in the country.
Closing remarks
President Trump warned both Thailand and Cambodia of steep tariffs unless they agree to independent trade deals, but he also said he would “look forward” to signing them once “peace is at hand.” The ceasefire marks a hopeful moment, but sustained confidence and cooperation will be essential to ensure lasting stability on this sensitive border.
