Hun Manet Seeks International Support for Cambodia–Thailand Ceasefire

Phnom Penh, Cambodia (December 13, 2025) – In a bid to de-escalate rising tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, Prime Minister Hun Manet has engaged in separate high-level talks with Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and United States President Donald Trump. The discussions, aimed at securing a ceasefire between the two Southeast Asian nations, are part of a broader diplomatic effort to restore stability to the Cambodian-Thai border.

The talks come in the wake of renewed military clashes along the border on December 7, 2025, which reignited long-standing disputes between the neighboring countries. Both sides have blamed each other for the escalation, which has led to casualties and heightened fears of further conflict.

A Commitment to Peace

In statements released via social media, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his gratitude to both Anwar Ibrahim and Donald Trump for their “continuous efforts” to help facilitate a peaceful resolution. The Cambodian leader emphasized that Cambodia remains dedicated to resolving its border disputes with Thailand through peaceful dialogue and cooperation, in line with the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration, a key agreement signed by both nations in 2008.

“We are committed to resolving all disagreements through peaceful means,” Hun Manet said, “and we believe that the international community can play a crucial role in helping both countries return to dialogue.”

Proposals for Verification and Transparency

A critical aspect of the ongoing tensions revolves around the shooting incident on December 7, which is believed to have sparked the recent round of border clashes. Cambodian officials have accused Thai forces of initiating the attack, while Thailand has denied the claims, calling the incident a result of provocation by Cambodia.

In response, Hun Manet proposed an independent and transparent verification mechanism to determine the facts of the incident. He suggested that third parties, such as the United States and Malaysia, could play a pivotal role in investigating the event. This could involve gathering satellite imagery and other intelligence to ascertain which side fired first.

“The easiest and most transparent way to establish the truth,” Hun Manet explained, “would be to involve an independent review process. I propose that the United States and Malaysia, with their advanced information-gathering capabilities, assist in verifying the facts.”

A Call for International Cooperation

The Cambodian Prime Minister also stressed that his government is fully prepared to cooperate with any verification process initiated by international parties. Both Malaysia and the United States have long been engaged in diplomatic and peacekeeping efforts in Southeast Asia, and their involvement could lend significant credibility to any investigation.

“Our goal is to avoid further escalation and find a peaceful solution,” Hun Manet continued. “We are ready to work with the international community to ensure that both Cambodia and Thailand move forward in a constructive and peaceful manner.”

The Path Ahead: Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

As Cambodia and Thailand remain on edge, the international community’s role in facilitating a ceasefire could prove crucial in the coming weeks. Analysts have noted that both Malaysia and the United States have deep-rooted interests in ensuring stability in Southeast Asia, and their diplomatic efforts are likely to intensify as tensions along the border persist.

While Hun Manet’s calls for cooperation have been met with support from both Anwar Ibrahim and Donald Trump, it remains to be seen whether the two nations will ultimately agree to a ceasefire and resume implementation of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration. The agreement, which focuses on the peaceful resolution of border disputes and mutual respect, has been a cornerstone of Cambodia–Thailand relations for over a decade.

For now, the world watches closely as diplomatic efforts continue to unfold, hoping for a return to peace and stability in the region.