Ceasefire Faces First Challenge as Thailand Accuses Cambodia
Thailand accuses Cambodia of violating a ceasefire just hours after both countries agreed to halt their border clashes. The ceasefire, which started at midnight, aimed to end days of violence that have left at least 33 people dead and displaced thousands.
The Thai military said it stopped firing but continued to receive gunfire from Cambodia at several points along the border. In contrast, Cambodia’s defense ministry claimed no new fighting had occurred since the truce began.
Despite the disagreement, military leaders from both sides met on Tuesday to enforce the agreement. They promised to stop firing, avoid troop movements, and recover bodies from the battlefield.
Border Clashes Escalated Quickly
The tensions between Thailand and Cambodia intensified after a Cambodian soldier died in May. The conflict worsened when five Thai troops were injured by a landmine, leading to retaliation and increased military presence on both sides.
Cambodia launched several rockets into Thai territory last week, killing civilians. Thailand responded with airstrikes and border closures. Diplomatic relations also suffered as ambassadors were expelled and recalled.
On the eve of the ceasefire, both armies were still exchanging heavy fire. But Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet said conditions had improved by Tuesday morning.
Longstanding Dispute Continues to Fuel Conflict
The ongoing crisis traces back to a temple dispute in 2008. Cambodia’s attempt to register the site as a UNESCO World Heritage location angered Thailand, sparking military tensions.
Since then, minor clashes have flared regularly. In recent months, both nations have imposed trade bans and increased troop deployment near the border.
Though a ceasefire is now in place, Thailand accuses Cambodia of breaching it, raising concerns about the stability of the agreement.
Leaders had reached the deal in Malaysia, with support from US President Donald Trump and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim. The agreement included troop withdrawal and third-party monitoring.
