Ceasefire announced in Thailand-Cambodia border conflict, but troops yet to withdraw: Reports
Bangkok/Phnom Penh: Thailand and Cambodia have reportedly agreed to a ceasefire following escalating violence along their shared border, though both nations have requested time to withdraw troops, according to media reports. While Cambodia has formally agreed to the truce, Thailand has expressed support “in principle”. Despite the agreement, reports suggest that gunfire had not ceased entirely at the border as of Friday, NDTV reported.
The ceasefire comes in the wake of deadly border clashes between the two countries, which have left at least 16 people dead. Earlier, Thailand declared a state of emergency in eight provinces as tensions intensified, as per news agency AFP. In response to the ongoing conflict, an advisory has been issued urging citizens to avoid travel in the affected regions, remain vigilant, and adhere to official safety instructions.
In a related development, Thailand earlier rejected international mediation efforts aimed at resolving the crisis. Bangkok insisted that Cambodia cease all hostilities and committed to resolving the issue solely through bilateral dialogue. According to Thai foreign ministry spokesperson Nikorndej, the current ASEAN chair--along with the United States, China, and Malaysia--had offered to facilitate discussions, but Thailand declined external involvement, stressing a two-party approach.
Root of the conflict: An ancient temple
At the centre of the long-standing dispute lies the Preah Vihear Temple (known in Thailand as Khao Phra Viharn), an 11th-century Hindu temple situated near the contentious border region. Although the International Court of Justice awarded the temple to Cambodia in 1962, Thailand continues to dispute sovereignty over the surrounding territory.
Fresh clashes erupted on Thursday in a disputed area near the temple, quickly spreading to other segments of the frontier. Both sides have blamed the other for initiating the exchange of fire, which continued into Friday.
Political fallout
The crisis took a political turn last month when former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen released a controversial recording of a private phone call with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In the leaked call, Paetongtarn addressed Hun Sen as “uncle” and was heard criticising a senior Thai military commander. The revelation triggered a domestic political storm in Thailand, leading to Paetongtarn’s suspension from office. The Constitutional Court is currently deliberating on whether to remove her from her post permanently.