Bangkok/Phnom Penh, Dec. 27, 2025 (Naija247news) – Thailand and Cambodia on Saturday signed a ceasefire agreement to end weeks of intense fighting along their shared border that has claimed over 100 lives and displaced more than half a million civilians across both countries.
The joint statement, issued by Thai Defence Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit and Cambodian counterpart Tea Seiha, declared that the ceasefire would take effect immediately at noon local time (05:00 GMT) and cover “all types of weapons” as well as attacks on civilians, infrastructure, and military objectives. Both sides also agreed to maintain current troop deployments without further movement.
Al Jazeera correspondent Assed Baig, reporting from the Cambodian border city of Poipet, described the initial hours of the truce as tense but largely adhered to. “The guns seem to have fallen silent… but right up until the ceasefire, there was intense firing. It highlights just how fragile the agreement is,” he said.
As part of the deal, Thailand will release 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in earlier clashes within 72 hours if the ceasefire holds. Both countries also pledged to avoid provocative actions and the dissemination of false information.
An ASEAN observer team will monitor the implementation of the truce, while open communication channels between Bangkok and Phnom Penh are to be maintained to quickly address any disputes on the ground.
The ceasefire follows 20 days of hostilities, the worst between the neighbours in recent years. The conflict stems from long-standing territorial disputes along the 800-kilometre border, including claims over ancient temples and resentment over colonial-era demarcations.
A trilateral meeting in Yunnan, China, involving Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Thai officials, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, is scheduled for Sunday. The session aims to build mutual confidence and restore “peace, security, and stability” in the border region.
Analysts warn that the next 72 hours will be critical to maintaining the truce, with displaced civilians unlikely to return home until safety can be assured.
David Okoroafor - Geopolitics & Foreign Affairs Editor ✔
David Okafor Geopolitical Editor / Foreign Affairs Editor, Naija247news Media Group David Okafor serves as the Foreign Affairs Editor at Naija247news Media Group, bringing over five years of experience in international journalism. Renowned for his investigative reporting and editorial leadership, he provides readers with in-depth analysis of global politics, economic trends, and major international events. A graduate in International Relations, David has a proven track record of delivering accurate, insightful, and impactful coverage, ensuring that Naija247news remains a trusted source for world affairs. His work has earned him respect across the media industry for clarity, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
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