Thailand has accused Cambodia of intentionally breaching a ceasefire established just hours prior, designed to put an end to violent confrontations along their border that have resulted in the deaths of at least 33 individuals and the displacement of many others. The ceasefire, agreed upon on Monday, comes after five days of intense bombardment and rocket attacks that have escalated tensions between the neighboring countries.
The Thai military reported that, despite ceasing fire at midnight, it continued to experience gunfire from Cambodia at various locations. In contrast, Cambodia's defense ministry informed the AFP that no armed clashes had occurred post-midnight when the ceasefire commenced. On the same day, local commanders from both nations conducted meetings related to the ceasefire agreement, achieving consensus to halt shooting and troop movements, while arrangements were made for collecting their deceased personnel.
Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have historically simmered, with a significant escalation occurring in May after a Cambodian soldier's death ignited further conflict. The situation deteriorated following a landmine explosion which injured five Thai soldiers. In response, Thailand shut several border crossings, expelled the Cambodian ambassador, and called back its own diplomat from Phnom Penh.
Following a series of hostile exchanges, including Cambodian rocket fire that claimed civilian lives on the Thai side, the situation reached a heightened state of emergency. Leading up to the ceasefire deadline, hostilities continued, with Thailand conducting additional airstrikes prior to the ceasefire's initiation. However, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that the frontlines had relaxed since the ceasefire began.
Within the framework of the ceasefire, both countries are expected to withdraw troops and permit independent monitoring to avert further hostilities. The agreement followed a meeting in Malaysia, facilitated by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, where both Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed their intent for peace, with Cambodia advocating strongly for the ceasefire as an essential step forward.
Historically, Thai-Cambodian relations have been fraught with disputes, particularly following Cambodia's attempts in 2008 to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for an ancient temple in the contested area—a move met with vehement opposition from Thailand. In recent months, border restrictions have intensified, with Cambodia imposing ban on certain Thai imports while both nations have increased military presence along their shared borders, contributing to rising tensions.
