Thailand and Cambodia Agree to Unconditional Ceasefire following five days of deadly border clashes that displaced more than 200,000 people. The ceasefire will come into effect at midnight on July 28, 2025, as announced by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who brokered the negotiations under the auspices of ASEAN.
The ongoing conflict between the two Southeast Asian nations centered around a disputed border zone home to several ancient temples. The confrontation involved heavy exchanges of artillery, rocket fire, and small arms, leading to a humanitarian crisis as tens of thousands sought safety away from the frontlines.
Diplomatic motorcades, including vehicles flying U.S. and Chinese flags, arrived at Seri Perdana, the official residence of the Malaysian Prime Minister, on Monday afternoon. The talks included high-level delegations from both countries, with Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet meeting early in the day to seek resolution.
Anwar confirmed that both sides had agreed to halt all hostilities without any preconditions. His statement followed direct intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly called both leaders over the weekend urging swift action toward peace.
U.S. State Department officials and a Chinese diplomatic team were also present at the talks, signaling strong international involvement in de-escalating the volatile situation. Malaysia, as the current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), played a central role in facilitating the dialogue.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, tensions remained high leading into the discussions. Thai officials expressed skepticism about Cambodia’s intentions, accusing Phnom Penh of escalating the situation. Conversely, Cambodia claimed Thailand had initiated hostilities by deploying heavy weapons and invading their territory for five consecutive days.
As the ceasefire comes into force, regional and global stakeholders will closely monitor the situation to ensure both sides honor the agreement. Analysts emphasize that long-term peace will require more than just a halt to gunfire—it will demand mutual trust, diplomacy, and possibly international arbitration to resolve lingering territorial disputes.
The ASEAN bloc is expected to play a continuing role in monitoring compliance and supporting dialogue. Meanwhile, humanitarian efforts are being mobilized for the displaced population, many of whom are in urgent need of shelter, food, and medical aid.
The ceasefire marks a significant de-escalation in one of the most dangerous regional flashpoints in Southeast Asia. Whether it holds or unravels will depend on the political will and cooperation of both countries in the coming days.
