A ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia began early Tuesday, bringing hope of peace after five days of intense fighting near their shared border. The truce, which started at midnight, was announced as “unconditional” and aims to stop deadly clashes over disputed ancient temple zones along their 800-kilometre boundary.
On Monday night, artillery sounds near Cambodia’s Samraong city continued until just before midnight, but fell silent soon after, signaling the truce had begun. In Preah Vihear province, where some of the fiercest battles occurred, local officials confirmed calm 20 minutes after the ceasefire deadline. The silence brought relief to thousands who had fled their homes.
The recent border violence has killed at least 38 people and displaced nearly 300,000, prompting international concern. US President Donald Trump got involved over the weekend, with American diplomats supporting peace efforts on the ground. Both countries are also seeking trade deals with the US, which may have pushed them to reach a truce.
As part of the agreement, military commanders from both sides met Tuesday morning, and a joint border committee will meet in Cambodia on August 4 to discuss lasting peace. The ceasefire was praised in a joint statement by Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia, who hosted the peace talks, calling it a “vital step toward restoring peace.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both nations to respect the ceasefire and work toward resolving their long-standing border disputes. China also took part in the negotiations, while ASEAN chair Anwar Ibrahim led the talks in Malaysia. Leaders from both countries expressed gratitude for international support, especially from Trump.
Despite previous accusations of snipers, rockets, and troop buildups, both sides now appear committed to peace. However, locals remain cautious. “If they say they’ll stop firing, they must stop completely,” said a Thai evacuee. Still, many, like Cambodian refugee Phean Neth, expressed overwhelming relief: “I am so happy I can’t describe it.”