Thailand and Cambodia Agree to 72‑Hour Cease‑Fire in Deadly Border Conflict

Negotiations seek to halt fighting that has killed dozens and displaced thousands over three weeks

Bangkok and Phnom Penh – After nearly three weeks of intense clashes along their disputed border, the governments of Thailand and Cambodia announced a temporary 72‑hour cease‑fire intended to create a window for diplomatic talks.

The hostilities, which erupted in early December, have resulted in the deaths of at least dozens of civilians and combatants and forced thousands of families to flee their homes, seeking shelter in makeshift camps on both sides of the frontier.

In a joint statement released early Tuesday, the foreign ministries of the two nations said the pause in fighting will be monitored by a neutral observer team from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The team will verify compliance, report any violations, and assist in the safe return of displaced residents.

“This cease‑fire is a first step toward a lasting solution,” said Thailand’s Foreign Minister Somchai Prasert. “We urge all parties to respect the truce and to come to the table with a genuine commitment to peace.”

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Keo Saphorn echoed the sentiment, adding, “The suffering of our people cannot continue. We are ready to discuss border demarcation, security arrangements, and humanitarian aid during this pause.”

International observers have welcomed the development, calling it “a critical breathing space” for humanitarian agencies to deliver aid and for refugees to receive medical assistance.

The cease‑fire is set to begin at 0600 GMT on Thursday and will last until 0600 GMT on Sunday. Both sides have pledged to halt artillery fire, air strikes, and ground incursions during this period.

While the agreement marks a hopeful turn, analysts warn that a durable peace will require addressing the underlying territorial disputes and establishing a robust mechanism for conflict resolution.