ALBAWABA- Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire initiative, clashes between Cambodia and Thailand continued over the weekend, escalating tensions along their shared border.
The ongoing violence has left 32 dead and forced over 200,000 people to flee their homes, as international calls intensify for an end to hostilities.
Both nations had expressed support for Trump's call to cease fire and enter negotiations, yet fighting resumed Saturday night and continued into Sunday, casting doubt on diplomatic efforts. At a Sunday press conference, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed his support for the ceasefire and willingness to hold talks, but Cambodia’s Defense Ministry accused Thailand of persisting with “hostilities.”
Over 80,000 people have reportedly been relocated to safer areas due to the ongoing conflict, according to ministry spokeswoman Mali Suchita.
In response, Thailand’s Foreign Ministry blamed Cambodia for the renewed violence, accusing it of targeting civilians in the Surin border province.
While also voicing support for the ceasefire, Thailand said it was waiting to see Cambodia’s “sincere intention” to de-escalate.
The hostilities stem from a decades-long border dispute spanning the 817-kilometer boundary between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
Although a temporary truce was reached on May 28, violence reignited on July 24, sparking deadly clashes.
Trump announced via TruthSocial on Saturday that he had personally spoken to the leaders of both countries and secured their agreement to launch immediate negotiations.
In a significant diplomatic move, Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is set to meet Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Malaysia on July 28 for peace talks.
The meeting, confirmed by Bangkok, will be hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister and current ASEAN chair Anwar Ibrahim.
