World

Tensions Ease: Thailand and Cambodia Agree to Withdraw Troops from Border after Deadly Clash

2025-06-08

Author: John Tan

In a significant move towards de-escalation, Thailand and Cambodia have reached an agreement to withdraw their troops to previous positions along their shared border. This decision comes in the wake of a recent clash that tragically resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.

On June 8, Cambodia's Defence Ministry confirmed this development, stating that both nations aim to ease rising tensions following the violent incident that occurred on May 28 in an undemarcated border area. Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai assured that talks are underway to restore peace and return to positions established in 2024.

For days, the Thai and Cambodian governments have exchanged diplomatic statements, reiterating their commitment to a peaceful resolution amidst the backdrop of a long-standing territorial dispute. With 17 official border crossings spanning 817 kilometers, the relationship between these neighboring countries is critical.

The conflict over the border has deep historical roots, dating back over a century since the boundaries were demarcated by French colonial powers in 1907. Tensions peaked in 2008 over an 11th-century Hindu temple, leading to violent skirmishes that claimed multiple lives, including a deadly week-long artillery exchange in 2011.

Currently, Thailand has limited operating hours for 10 border crossings, reducing their times for security reasons. The busiest checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province has shortened its hours from 6 AM to 10 PM to just 8 AM to 4 PM.

Looking ahead, Thailand and Cambodia are set to convene a Joint Boundary Committee meeting on June 14, with hopes of resolving the territorial disputes through bilateral negotiations. However, Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn has proposed taking the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), citing the complexities and historical significance of the conflicts.

The Thai government, however, remains opposed to involving the ICJ, preferring to address these issues through direct talks. As both countries navigate this critical period, the relationship between their new leaders, Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand and Hun Manet of Cambodia, will be crucial in shaping future diplomatic dynamics.

Stay tuned as this story develops, and both nations strive for a peaceful resolution to avoid further conflict.