Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to deploy ceasefire monitors despite a deadlock over 18 captured Cambodian soldiers. The two countries signed a joint statement on Thursday, committing to establish interim observer teams to monitor the fragile ceasefire that ended five days of deadly border clashes. Dozens were killed and over 260,000 displaced in the fighting, which began after a land mine explosion wounded five Thai soldiers.
The meeting, chaired by Cambodian Defense Minister Gen. Tea Seiha and Thailand’s Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakpanit, also marked an important milestone for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan hailed the outcome as a “step in the right direction,” while noting that the goal is a durable and sustainable ceasefire.
The July 28 ceasefire was brokered by Malaysia and followed economic pressure from US President Donald Trump, who warned the warring nations of trade consequences if fighting persisted. However, tensions remain, with each country accusing the other of violating agreements and human rights laws.
A key sticking point is the fate of the 18 captured Cambodian soldiers, which both countries refuse to resolve. Cambodia accuses Thailand of mistreating the men, while Thailand calls them “prisoners of war.” The joint statement urges their immediate release and repatriation after hostilities cease, but does not clarify whether this refers to a formal end to the conflict.
The deployment of interim observer teams is seen as an important step towards ensuring the full implementation of the ceasefire. Each country will set up its own team, comprised of defense officials from ASEAN, pending the deployment of a formal observer mission.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/thailand-cambodia-border-conflict-ceasefire-malaysia-307449fbf3e60395233a7b0df8b14a9d