Thailand and Cambodia agree to an unconditional ceasefire – Malaysian PM

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire beginning at midnight local time on Monday, officially ending days of violent clashes along their disputed border.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the breakthrough, highlighting Malaysia’s role as mediator in facilitating peace talks between the two nations.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai held face-to-face talks at the official residence in Putrajaya, Malaysia.

The meeting underscores a renewed commitment to diplomatic resolution as regional commanders prepare to convene on July 29 to oversee the ceasefire process.

Reports indicate that at least 35 people have been killed and more than 200 injured in the latest flare-up, with both Thai and Cambodian officials trading blame over who initiated hostilities.

Cambodian authorities accused Thai forces of striking at least two locations early Monday, while Thailand confirmed ongoing clashes in three provinces that same morning.

With the immediate ceasefire taking effect and diplomatic momentum gathering in Putrajaya, the Thailand–Cambodia border conflict may be entering a new chapter of de‑escalation. Continued vigilance and dialogue remain essential to sustain this hard‑won stability.

Context

The Thailand–Cambodia border conflict stems from a century-old territorial dispute, reignited by recent political tensions, landmine incidents, and military provocations.

The clashes centered around the ancient Preah Vihear temple, the Cambodia–Thailand border, leaving at least 35 dead and displacing over 140,000 civilians.

The contested region, home to culturally significant temples and dense jungle, holds symbolic and strategic value, making it a longstanding flashpoint in Southeast Asia.

Tensions were further inflamed by a leaked political scandal involving top leaders from both countries, fueling nationalist rhetoric and distrust.

Military exchanges escalated quickly, prompting Thailand to declare martial law in eight border districts. Amid mounting humanitarian and geopolitical pressure.

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