After a week of deadly artillery exchanges along the Cambodia - Thailand border, both sides agreed to a ceasefire on Monday.
The truce was quietly arranged in Kuala Lumpur through the mediation of Malaysia, which currently chairs ASEAN. While the agreement is temporary, the end to one of the most serious escalations between the two countries in more than a decade, is being seen as a rare moment of effective diplomacy for a regional bloc often criticised for avoiding direct political engagement.
More than 30 people were killed, dozens injured, and over 260,000 displaced as rockets, shelling, and airstrikes hit villages and military positions. Ancient temples turned into frontline targets, and thousands of civilians fled their homes.
A Longstanding Border Dispute
The violence broke out on 24 July after several weeks of rising tension. In May, a Cambodian soldier was killed in a brief exchange of fire. Two landmine blasts in July injured multiple Thai soldiers, further escalating the situation.
Both sides accused each other of firing first. The clashes centred around the Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples, two historic sites that have long been disputed by both countries.
Cambodia formally requested intervention from the United Nations Security Council. Thailand, in line with its long-standing policy, refused outside mediation and called for bilateral talks.
Malaysia Steps In
As neither country showed signs of restrained, Malaysia intervened. Acting as ASEAN chair, it brought both sides to the table and pushed for an immediate halt to the fighting.
By 28 July, the ceasefire was in place. No official ceremony was held. No statements were made. But the shelling stopped, and a wider war was avoided.
A Pause, Not a Resolution
The fighting may have ended, but the dispute is far from over. Cambodia continues to press for a resolution through the International Court of Justice. Thailand remains opposed to international arbitration. The contested border remains unsettled.
In the meantime, civilians continue to suffer. Thousands remain displaced. Schools and homes were damaged. Markets turned into temporary shelters. Many are still too afraid to return.
Rights groups are calling for an independent investigation into the use of explosives near civilian areas and the impact of landmines. Humanitarian agencies are urging both governments to focus on mine clearance, the safe return of displaced people, and the restoration of essential services.
A Regional Message
In the tense security climate of Southeast Asia, even a short-lived truce is a great outcome. The region is home to several unresolved border disputes, India-Pakistan, India-China and many other conflicts.
The Cambodia and Thailand ceasefire shows that regional players, may pause or resolve even deep-rooted conflicts.
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