> At a Glance
> – Thailand released 18 Cambodian POWs after a ceasefire.
> – The prisoners had been held for 5 months.
> – The release followed a ceasefire signed at the Chanthaburi-Pailin border checkpoint.
> – Why it matters: It marks a step toward normalizing relations after months of fighting.
Thailand has freed 18 Cambodian soldiers who had been held for 5 months, honoring a ceasefire signed Saturday at the Chanthaburi-Pailin border checkpoint. The release, part of a broader effort to end hostilities over disputed territory, marks a significant step toward normalizing relations. Both sides cited humanitarian principles and confidence-building in the agreement.
Ceasefire Agreement and Release
The ceasefire, signed by defense ministers on Saturday, stipulated that the 18 prisoners would be returned if hostilities ceased for 72 hours. Thailand said it had the right to detain them under Geneva Conventions, while Cambodia said the soldiers were captured after a friendly-intention approach turned hostile. The agreement also noted that 250 Cambodian drones were active along the border, prompting Thailand to evaluate the situation.
- 18 soldiers released
- 5 months of captivity
- 72-hour rule for release
- 250 drones claimed active
- 20 soldiers originally captured
- 2 repatriated for medical reasons
Reactions and Aftermath
Cambodia’s Defense Ministry welcomed the release as a confidence-building act that clears the path to peace and full normalization. Thai officials highlighted that the prisoners had been allowed ICRC visits and other humanitarian rights.
- 26 Thai soldiers lost since Dec. 7
- 44 civilian deaths reported
- 1 civilian casualty in Thailand
| Country | Soldiers lost | Civilians lost |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | 26 | 1 |
| Cambodia | 0 | 44 |
The release follows months of propaganda and sporadic border skirmishes that escalated into heavy fighting in December.
Key Takeaways
- 18 Cambodian soldiers are home after 5 months of captivity.
- The ceasefire’s 72-hour rule and humanitarian principles guided the release.
- Thailand lost 26 soldiers and suffered 44 civilian deaths since Dec. 7.
With the prisoners home, both nations now face the challenge of sustaining peace and rebuilding trust after a long period of conflict.
