【International News】Thailand Accuses Cambodia of Ceasefire Violation｜Tensions Flare Along Border Again

Ceasefire Brokered by ASEAN and US-China Quickly Undermined After Implementation

On July 29, 2025, the ceasefire agreed upon between Thailand and Cambodia officially took effect at midnight local time in the conflict zone near their shared border. However, the Thai military has claimed that Cambodia violated the agreement by launching multiple attacks immediately after the ceasefire began. As a result, tensions in the region have reignited, and doubts have arisen about the effectiveness of the ceasefire agreement.

【Key Point 1】Ceasefire Achieved Through Diplomatic Efforts by ASEAN, the US, and China

Since July 24, a large-scale military clash has resulted in over 30 deaths, including civilians, and forced approximately 300,000 people to flee. The international community called for an immediate ceasefire, with ASEAN’s current chair Malaysia leading the mediation efforts. Both the United States and China were also diplomatically involved. On July 28, a summit was held with representatives from each country, resulting in an agreement on an unconditional ceasefire beginning July 29.

【Key Point 2】Thai Military Alleges Violation, Reports of Continued Fighting

Despite the ceasefire taking effect, multiple skirmishes were reported in the region, with the Thai side accusing Cambodia of launching repeated attacks. Local media have confirmed ongoing clashes, indicating that tensions remain high between the two nations.

【Key Point 3】Leaders Hold Phone Talks, Trump Highlights Success

President Trump held phone calls with Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet following the ceasefire. On social media, he stated that “thousands of lives have been saved by ending the war,” and proudly declared, “I’ve ended many wars in just six months. I am the president of peace.” He also directed his administration to resume tariff negotiations with both countries.

【Key Point 4】Cambodia Acknowledges Cooperation with Trump

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet revealed on his Facebook page that President Trump had promised U.S. cooperation with ASEAN’s ceasefire monitoring group. This marks an important step in ensuring a stronger implementation system supported by international powers.

【Background】Long-Standing Border Dispute and the Preah Vihear Temple

The root of the conflict lies in a long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. In particular, sovereignty over the area surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple has remained unresolved, even after rulings by the International Court of Justice. The latest clashes are seen as a continuation of this historical dispute.

【Outlook】Establishing International Observers and Enforcing the Ceasefire

Direct talks between regional military commanders of both nations are scheduled for July 29, with the goal of establishing concrete procedures for maintaining the ceasefire. Going forward, the setup of an international monitoring body led by ASEAN or the United Nations will be essential. As the information war intensifies through social media and media reports, the need for independent fact-finding investigations is also increasing.

【Conclusion】Ceasefire Is a First Step, Diplomacy and Trust-Building Are Key

While the ceasefire agreement is a result of dedicated diplomatic efforts, its successful implementation depends on mutual trust and international oversight. Continued diplomatic dialogue and multilateral cooperation will be crucial in achieving lasting peace.

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