In a major development following the most violent border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia in over a decade, both nations have agreed in principle to a ceasefire and expressed willingness to begin bilateral talks to resolve the conflict. The breakthrough came after dramatic intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump and growing pressure from the United Nations.
Thailand’s foreign ministry confirmed late Saturday that it is open to implementing a ceasefire and beginning dialogue “as soon as possible.” The statement marks the first sign of de-escalation after weeks of fighting that has left dozens dead, thousands displaced, and international leaders scrambling for a diplomatic solution.
Trump Steps In as Deal Maker Amid Escalating Violence
The ceasefire talks gained momentum after a series of phone calls by President Donald Trump with both Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The U.S. President linked the conflict to his ongoing trade discussions with both Southeast Asian nations and openly declared that he would not proceed with any deals while the war continued.
“Just spoke to the Prime Minister of Cambodia relative to stopping the War with Thailand. I am calling the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand now to likewise request a ceasefire,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “We do not want to make any trade deals with either country if they are fighting—and I have told them so!”
Trump further drew comparisons to the India-Pakistan conflict and expressed optimism that the Cambodian-Thai war could be resolved in a similar fashion.
Human Cost Mounts as Tens of Thousands Displaced
As fighting raged across the jungle-covered border region, both nations suffered significant civilian displacement. Cambodian officials report that nearly 37,635 people across three provinces have fled to safety, while Thai authorities have confirmed the evacuation of over 131,000 residents from vulnerable border areas.
The conflict, which erupted over a series of long-disputed ancient temple sites, escalated rapidly into full-blown military engagement, with exchanges of rocket and artillery fire. The region, known for its rugged terrain and farming communities, has seen destruction of homes, farmland, and vital infrastructure.
International Alarm Over Use of Cluster Munitions
One of the most controversial aspects of the conflict has been the alleged use of cluster munitions by Thai forces. Initially denied, a Thai military spokesperson later admitted on Friday that such weapons could be used “when necessary” for strategic purposes. Human Rights Watch and other global observers condemned the move, calling it reckless and dangerous, especially in civilian-populated areas.
Neither Thailand nor Cambodia is a signatory to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans the use, production, and transfer of such weapons. Their past deployment during a 2011 clash led to at least 20 deaths and drew heavy international criticism.
UN Chief Calls for Immediate Ceasefire
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the armed clashes and issued a stern call for an immediate ceasefire.
“I urge both sides to immediately agree to a ceasefire and to address any issues through dialogue,” Guterres posted on X. “I remain available to assist in efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the dispute.”
His call added to mounting global pressure for peace, especially as humanitarian agencies struggle to support thousands of newly displaced families in both countries.
Cambodia Echoes Support for Dialogue, But Issues Warning
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed the proposed ceasefire talks and praised the diplomatic efforts made by President Trump. He confirmed that Cambodia’s foreign minister will be in contact with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to coordinate next steps.
However, Hun Manet warned that Cambodia expects Thailand to honor any agreement made and not use talks as a delay tactic.
“We are open to ceasefire talks, but Bangkok must not renege on its commitments,” he said, as reported by AFP.
Road Ahead: Dialogue, But Distrust Lingers
While the announcement of potential ceasefire negotiations marks a hopeful turning point, analysts caution that both sides will need to commit genuinely to peace for the talks to succeed. Long-standing territorial disputes and nationalistic sentiments have often derailed past efforts.
Thailand’s foreign ministry emphasized the need for “sincere intention from the Cambodian side”, and called on Trump to act as an intermediary in scheduling the first round of bilateral discussions.
A Fragile Hope for Peace
With over 168,000 people displaced, and the memory of previous failed ceasefires still fresh, the road to lasting peace between Thailand and Cambodia remains uncertain. But the rare alignment of diplomatic channels—from Washington to the United Nations—could be the key to pulling the region back from the brink.
For now, the world watches closely as two nations poised on the edge of war inch toward dialogue—guided by both humanitarian urgency and geopolitical pressure.
