A renewed ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia held beyond its initial 72-hour benchmark on Tuesday, easing fears of an immediate return to fighting along their disputed border. However, there was no confirmation that Thailand had released 18 Cambodian soldiers detained since July, as outlined in the ceasefire agreement.
The truce took effect at noon on Saturday and ended nearly three weeks of intense clashes involving fighter jets, rockets and artillery.
Background
The latest violence killed at least 101 people and displaced more than 500,000 civilians on both sides of the border. Fighting reignited earlier this month after a previous ceasefire collapsed. That earlier deal had been brokered with the involvement of U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Landmine explosions in disputed border areas were among the triggers for the renewed clashes.
Ceasefire Conditions
Under the agreement signed by the two countries’ defence ministers, Thailand said it would release 18 Cambodian soldiers after the ceasefire held for 72 hours. By Tuesday afternoon, no update had been given on the status of the detainees. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the ceasefire remained fragile and required restraint from both sides to prevent escalation.
Disputes and Alleged Violations
Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the ceasefire by flying more than 250 drones over Thai territory on Sunday night and warned it could reconsider releasing the detained soldiers. Cambodia rejected the allegation and issued an order banning drone use nationwide.
Thailand also lodged a formal protest after a Thai soldier lost a limb in a landmine blast on Monday in a border area.
Diplomatic Efforts
China’s foreign minister hosted two days of talks with Thai and Cambodian officials, resulting in an agreement on Monday to work toward rebuilding trust and gradually consolidating the ceasefire.
With information from Reuters.
