Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand on Monday. The agreement calls for an “immediate and unconditional” halt to fighting, effective from midnight local time. This decision follows days of deadly clashes along their long-disputed border. Malaysia acted as a mediator in the peace talks.
So far, the violence has claimed at least 35 lives and injured over 200 people. Both Cambodian and Thai officials blame each other for starting the latest round of violence. Reports suggest fighting continued even a few hours before the peace talks began. This conflict stems from a decades-old border dispute between the two nations.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai met in Putrajaya, Malaysia. The talks took place at the Malaysian prime minister’s official residence, located south of Kuala Lumpur. The leaders also agreed that regional commanders from both sides will meet on Tuesday, July 29.
Cambodia claims Thai forces attacked at least two locations early in the conflict. Meanwhile, Thai officials say clashes took place Monday morning in three provinces. Despite the agreement, mistrust between the two sides remains high. However, both leaders expressed hope the ceasefire will lead to lasting peace.
Prime Minister Anwar stressed the importance of dialogue over conflict. He praised both nations for choosing peace despite recent tensions. The international community has welcomed the truce and urged both sides to stick to the agreement. Further diplomatic steps are expected after the commanders’ meeting.