Thailand Cambodia ceasefire violation concerns grew on Wednesday as Thailand’s military accused Cambodian forces of breaking the agreement again. The second breach happened at three separate border points, including Sisaket province. Thai troops said they returned fire in self-defense.
The ceasefire began at midnight on Monday after five days of deadly conflict. The clashes killed at least 43 people and displaced more than 300,000 civilians. Malaysia brokered the truce with U.S. President Donald Trump’s backing. Trump warned both nations that trade with the U.S. could suffer if the violence continued.
Major-General Winthai Suvaree, Thailand’s army spokesman, said Cambodian forces fired small arms and grenades at Thai positions. He called the actions deliberate and harmful to peace efforts. “This was the second incident since the agreement,” he said. “It reflects a lack of respect, disrupts de-escalation, and weakens trust.”
Cambodia denied the allegations. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Chum Sounry called them false and damaging. “Cambodia strongly rejects the accusations,” he said. “They harm the fragile trust-building process.” He added that Cambodia supports international monitoring to ensure both sides comply.
Despite the ceasefire, neither side has started to withdraw troops. There have been no new reports of heavy artillery use. However, tension remains high. Both countries will meet for military talks on August 4 in Cambodia. Defense ministers will join efforts to ease the crisis.
The ceasefire was seen as a success for Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and President Trump. Trump said he spoke with both leaders. He also instructed U.S. trade officials to begin talks on possible tariff reductions. Without peace, the U.S. plans to impose a 36% tariff on Thai and Cambodian exports.
Experts say this new clash could derail diplomatic progress. The region has seen border tensions before, but this is the deadliest flare-up in over a decade. Analysts warn that continued conflict could bring heavy costs for both economies and their regional standing.
Thailand says it will defend its territory but wants a peaceful solution. Cambodia agrees in principle but mistrust remains. Civilians are already suffering. A Cambodian shell destroyed a gas station and a 7-Eleven store, killing several people. Families are holding funerals amid growing fear.
The upcoming summit is key. If both sides act with restraint, they could prevent further disaster. The region and its people are watching closely.
