Thailand has handed over 18 Cambodian soldiers captured during deadly border clashes in July, marking a significant step in a ceasefire agreed between the two countries on Saturday.
The handover had been delayed a day due to Thai concerns over alleged ceasefire violations but proceeded following sustained Chinese diplomatic pressure.
“The 18 Cambodian soldiers, dressed in civilian clothes, were greeted by well-wishers as they crossed the border and were handed to Cambodian authorities,” officials reported. Their captivity had fueled nationalist sentiment in Cambodia, with their release a key demand in ceasefire negotiations.
Thailand’s foreign ministry described the release as a “demonstration of goodwill” and expressed hope that Cambodia would “reciprocate this goodwill through its concrete actions.” Cambodia confirmed the return of its troops, saying it “remains hopeful” that this move will help build “mutual trust and confidence.”
Although the ceasefire required the soldiers’ release within 72 hours, Bangkok delayed the handover after accusing Phnom Penh of flying more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles over Thai territory. Despite the hiccup, the ceasefire appears to be holding for now.
Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have simmered for over a century, escalating earlier this year after clashes over a disputed temple. Previous confrontations in May and July left dozens dead and displaced thousands.
The July ceasefire, brokered by US President Donald Trump, collapsed recently but the latest release signals cautious progress toward stabilising the volatile border region.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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