Cambodia, July 26,2025:The conflict has already caused at least 32 deaths across both sides, with 19 fatalities in Thailand
Cambodia ceasefire demand takes center stage
Cambodia ceasefire demand gained international attention as fierce border clashes with Thailand entered their third day. Cambodia’s UN ambassador, Chhea Keo, demanded an immediate, unconditional ceasefire to end escalating violence that has displaced tens of thousands and claimed dozens of lives.
Cambodia ceasefire demand — reasons behind the call
Escalating death toll and civilian displacement
The conflict has already caused at least 32 deaths across both sides, with 19 fatalities in Thailand (including civilians and soldiers) and 13 in Cambodia.
Over 130,000 civilians have been uprooted: about 138,000 from Thailand and 23,000+ from Cambodia. Thousands are sheltering in schools, sports halls, and tent camps across eight Thai districts and Cambodian border provinces.
Historic border dispute revisited
This flare-up revives a century‑old territorial disagreement over the Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples, stemming from colonial-era maps and disputes over sovereignty. Thailand and Cambodia have exchanged serious accusations since Cambodia sought UNESCO listing for Preah Vihear in 2008—tensions that have simmered ever since.
Cambodia ceasefire demand amid military escalation
Use of heavy weapons and allegations
The clashes have involved airstrikes, artillery barrages, rockets, tanks, and potential use of cluster munitions, amid mutual allegations of war crimes. Cambodia accuses Thailand of targeting civilian infrastructure, including a hospital and fuel station. Thailand claims Cambodian troops used cluster bombs and launched rocket attacks.
Declaration of martial law and evacuations
Thailand declared martial law in eight border districts to contain the conflict, prompting swift mass evacuations and establishment of over 300 temporary shelters. Cambodia too evacuated hundreds of villages near Oddar Meanchey province.
The acting Thai Prime Minister warned the escalation “could develop into war” if conflict continues unabated.
Diplomacy in play — rejecting and reshaping peace efforts
Thailand’s bilateral stance vs mediation
Thailand insists the crisis should be resolved through direct bilateral talks, rejecting third-party mediation at this stage. Offers of mediation from the US, China, and ASEAN Chair Malaysia have been declined, with officials emphasizing bilateral mechanisms remain unexhausted. Cambodia denies initial hostilities and claims Thailand backed out from a Malaysia-proposed ceasefire at the last moment.
H3: ASEAN and UN interventions rise
The UN Security Council convened an emergency session, with all 15 members urging both parties to show restraint and de-escalate.
ASEAN Chair Malaysia offered mediation as regional pressure mounts. US, China, France, and the EU joined calls for a ceasefire.
Cambodian PM Hun Manet appealed to the UN for swift action, calling Thailand’s actions “unprovoked aggression.”
Cambodia ceasefire demand — what must happen next
- Ceasefire enforcement: Both sides must immediately halt hostilities and withdraw troops to prevent further spread of violence.
- Humanitarian corridors: Safe and neutral pathways must be established to allow displaced civilians access to food, water, and medical assistance.
- Renewed dialogue: Thailand and Cambodia should either resume bilateral talks or accept ASEAN mediation, ensuring transparency and good faith.
- International safeguards: External observers (e.g. UN monitors) should oversee any agreements to prevent violations and rebuild diplomatic trust.
Cambodia ceasefire demand calls for urgent global action
Cambodia ceasefire demand underscores a critical turning point in Southeast Asia. With mounting casualties, wide-scale displacement, and use of heavy weaponry, both nations edge perilously toward full-scale conflict. Regional stability hinges on rapid compliance with ceasefire calls and transparent diplomacy. The stakes extend beyond borders—human lives, regional peace, and the integrity of international order are on the line.
