Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an “immediate” ceasefire, ending weeks of deadly border clashes that have killed at least 47 people and displaced around a million, according to a joint statement issued by the Cambodian side on Saturday.
The ceasefire, effective from 12:00pm local time on 27 December 2025, covers all types of weapons and applies to all areas, including civilian infrastructure, military objectives, and attacks on civilians. Both countries’ defence ministers signed the agreement, committing to halt troop movements and allow displaced civilians to return home.
In addition to ending hostilities, Thailand and Cambodia pledged to cooperate on demining operations and combat cybercrime. The ceasefire comes after renewed fighting over disputed zones along the border, including ancient temples, which marked the worst clashes in more than a decade.
The escalation this month shattered a previous truce, highlighting the long-standing tensions between the neighbours. The latest agreement follows three days of border talks initiated after a crisis meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers, with support from the United States, China, and Malaysia urging both sides to resume peace.
Earlier ceasefires, including a five-day truce brokered in July by regional powers, had been short-lived. This latest ceasefire aims to provide a more sustainable solution and prevent further civilian casualties and displacement.
The joint statement emphasises that all forms of aggression must cease immediately, allowing communities near the border to rebuild and facilitating humanitarian access. Both countries have committed to ongoing dialogue to manage tensions and prevent future flare-ups, signalling a willingness to resolve disputes diplomatically rather than through armed conflict.
Observers note that the agreement is crucial not only for regional stability but also for ASEAN cohesion, as both nations are key members. The ceasefire offers hope for lasting peace along the contested frontier while addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by recent fighting.
