Thailand and Cambodia Agree to Ceasefire After Deadly Border Clashes Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Thailand and Cambodia committed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire on Friday, following five days of bloody border clashes that have claimed at least 35 lives and displaced over 270,000 people. This came after peace talks led by Malaysia in Putrajaya, which were attended by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

The battles erupted over disputed territory on mutual borders around ancient temples, escalating into artillery exchanges and accusations of chemical weapons use—denied by Thailand. Despite ongoing fighting during the talks, both countries agreed to stop fighting starting at 17:00 GMT.

International actors, including the United States and China, played key roles in brokering the dialogue. US President Donald Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio were also actively engaged, with both countries being asked by China to move towards peace efforts first. ASEAN foreign ministers also pleaded for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian grounds.

There is a planned follow-up commanders' meeting to formalize the truce and prevent further escalation. Commanders had been hopeful that the ceasefire would ensure trust and result in long-term resolution of territorial concerns.