Thailand Releases 18 Cambodian Soldiers
Thailand has released 18 Cambodian soldiers it had detained since July as part of a renewed ceasefire agreement with Cambodia. The soldiers were handed back at a border checkpoint after spending 155 days in Thai custody, marking an important step in easing tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
Border Clashes and Ceasefire
The release follows a renewed ceasefire that came into effect at noon on Saturday, ending around three weeks of intense fighting along the Thailand-Cambodia border. The clashes involved artillery, rocket exchanges and other heavy weapons, resulting in at least 101 deaths and forcing hundreds of thousands of civilians from their homes. Under the terms of the ceasefire, both sides agreed to halt hostilities and, if the truce held for 72 hours, to release detained soldiers.
Return and Reactions
The Cambodian Defence Ministry welcomed the return of its troops and said their release would help build trust and support peace efforts. Thai officials said the soldiers were treated humanely while in detention. The handover was overseen as part of confidence-building measures agreed under the ceasefire.
Continued Challenges
Analysts say the release is a positive sign, but long-standing disputes over border demarcation and previous ceasefire violations mean efforts to maintain peace will require continued dialogue and monitoring. Both countries have committed to reducing tensions and preventing further escalations along their shared border.
