Thailand has pledged to release 18 detained Cambodian soldiers once peace is restored, according to a statement from a Thai official on Saturday. This announcement follows a ceasefire agreement reached between Cambodia and Thailand after several days of intense clashes along their border.
The ceasefire came after lengthy discussions during the General Border Committee (GBC) meetings held in Chanthaburi province, Thailand. The agreement specifies that the truce took effect at noon local time and shall be monitored by both countries for a period of 72 hours. The Thai government considered the potential economic repercussions and impacts on its international reputation before settling on this accord.
Thai Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Narkphanit remarked at a press conference that once calm is restored, civilians will be free to return to their homes, and the detained Cambodian soldiers will be released. In turn, Thailand expressed hope that Cambodian authorities would also ensure the safe return of Thai citizens currently in Cambodia.
The initial hours of the ceasefire will serve as a crucial test of the trust between the two nations. They have committed to maintaining open communication channels to counter disinformation that has previously complicated negotiations, and Thailand expects assistance from Cambodia in clearing landmines from disputed territories.
While Thailand is optimistic about the ceasefire’s implementation, it remains vigilant and prepared to defend itself if hostilities resume. Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sonjaidee emphasized that the ceasefire needs to be genuinely upheld, marking the importance of the 72-hour monitoring period to assess the situation’s stability. Should tensions escalate again, Thailand is ready to fall back on its defense protocols.
Before the ceasefire, the situation at the border had been marked by rising tensions, with airstrikes and clashes occurring almost daily, significantly affecting civilian populations in the area. The hope now rests on a return to peace and cooperation between the two nations, which could pave the way for improved diplomatic relations in the future.