Thai and Cambodian forces have agreed to a ceasefire following a brief exchange of gunfire in a disputed border region, according to official statements from both militaries.
On Wednesday, tensions escalated when Cambodian soldiers reportedly entered a contested area along the border. The Thai military personnel approached the site intending to negotiate, but misunderstandings led to Cambodian troops opening fire. The Thai soldiers responded in kind. The confrontation lasted approximately 10 minutes.
Subsequently, local commanders from both sides communicated directly and ordered a cessation of hostilities. The Thai army confirmed no casualties occurred during the incident while the Cambodian military has not reported any immediate information regarding injuries or losses.
Cambodian army spokesperson Mao Phalla stated that Cambodian soldiers had been engaged in routine patrol activities when the Thai side initiated gunfire. Meanwhile, Thailand's Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai emphasized that both countries had no intention of provoking violence and affirmed that the situation has since been contained.
This clash underscores the longstanding territorial disputes between Thailand and Cambodia, notably around the Preah Vihear promontory—a UNESCO World Heritage site granted to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 2013. Border tensions have flared in recent months, including a February incident involving Cambodian troops singing their national anthem near an ancient temple, which sparked a brief confrontation with Thai forces.
Authorities from both nations continue to engage in dialogue to manage their border differences peacefully and prevent further incidents.
