Kuala Lumpur
Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to end ongoing border clashes that have killed over 30 people and displaced hundreds of thousands. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who chaired mediation talks in Kuala Lumpur as ASEAN head, announced the ceasefire would take effect at midnight on July 28.
Anwar said both sides had reached a common understanding to restore peace and normalcy. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s Acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai welcomed the outcome and shook hands during a joint press briefing.
The deadly clashes, which erupted on Thursday in a disputed border area, mark the worst violence between the two nations in over a decade. Both countries had earlier recalled their ambassadors, and Thailand had closed all border crossings except for returning Cambodian workers.
Gunfire and shelling had continued through the weekend in Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province. Cambodian military officials described Thailand’s assault as "strong and ongoing," while Thai leaders expressed distrust over Cambodia’s intentions.
The conflict prompted global concern. U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly warned of halting trade deals with both nations if violence persisted, while observers from the U.S. and China attended the talks. ASEAN foreign ministers also issued a statement condemning the violence and displacement.
A border summit is scheduled in Cambodia on August 4. Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV, speaking from the Vatican, prayed for peace and for those displaced, especially children.
The longstanding territorial dispute escalated in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed. Refugees at relocation camps continue to plead for peace. “We just want the fighting to stop,” said 62-year-old Phum Sokhorn, who fled his village.