PHNOM PENH / BANGKOK – Cambodia has formally demanded the immediate release of 20 Cambodian soldiers detained by Thai forces after a ceasefire was agreed earlier this week to halt deadly cross‑border clashes between the neighbouring countries.
Prime Minister Hun Manet, speaking on Thursday, called on Thailand to “promptly return all 20 of our forces, including any other forces under Thai control”. A Cambodian defence spokesperson confirmed that one soldier died while in Thai custody and that his body has already been repatriated.
Thailand confirmed the detainees—18 or 20 depending on official statements—surrendered roughly eight hours after the ceasefire took effect at around 07:50 a.m. after crossing into Thai‑held territory.
Two of the detainees are reportedly receiving medical treatment, while others are being held in a secure area by the Thai Second Army Region, which says it is providing basic care under international humanitarian standards.
Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has clarified that the release will follow an investigation verifying the facts, adding that the Thai military has not violated the ceasefire agreement.
Background: Conflict and Ceasefire
The violence erupted after five days of intense clashes from July 24 to July 29, resulting in at least 43 fatalities—including both civilians and military personnel—and forcing more than 300,000 people to flee their homes. The fighting reignited longstanding territorial disputes over iconic temple sites such as Ta Moan Thom and Preah Vihear along their shared border.
A ceasefire brokered in Malaysia on July 28 came into effect at midnight on Monday, facilitated by mediation from Malaysia, international observers including China and the U.S., and pressure tied to trade incentives and the threat of tariffs. Since then, both sides have accused each other of violations, though the truce has largely held.
Military commanders from both countries have agreed to de-escalate, restrict troop movements, and establish coordination teams to resolve peace issues. Talks under the General Border Committee are scheduled for August 4 to reaffirm diplomatic channels.
Cambodia has organized a border visit for diplomats, while Thailand plans to conduct its own tour to showcase the damage and reinforce its position that the ceasefire has been respected.
Outlook
As negotiations progress, the fate of the detained soldiers remains a key point of contention. Cambodia expects their swift release as a gesture of trust and good faith, while Thailand emphasizes due process and stabilization. The August 4 talks will test whether both sides can move from armed confrontation toward reconciliation.
Source: Local News Agencies
