Cambodia Calls for Ceasefire to Allow 1 Million Thai and Cambodian Civilians to Return Home

Cambodia has called for an immediate ceasefire to help more than one million civilians displaced by the ongoing border conflict with Thailand. The proposal, announced on December 22, urges both sides to halt fighting at 10 PM the same day and return to the peace agreement signed on October 26.

Prak Sokhonn, Cambodia’s Foreign Minister, stressed that peace is the country’s top priority, highlighting the urgent need to allow displaced people to safely return to their homes. Sokhonn pointed out that Cambodia has repeatedly requested a ceasefire, but Thailand has yet to formally accept the proposal.

“We are not asking for military solutions, only a peaceful resolution,” Sokhonn said at a press briefing. The conflict has led to widespread displacement on both sides, with nearly one million people seeking refuge in border areas.

ASEAN’s Support for Peace

ASEAN foreign ministers have expressed their backing for Cambodia’s call for a ceasefire, urging both countries to de-escalate the situation. Sokhonn welcomed the support, emphasizing that the focus should be on humanitarian efforts rather than continued fighting.

“The situation is affecting civilians on both sides. We need peace to bring them home,” he added.

Thailand’s Response and Next Steps

Thailand has not officially accepted the ceasefire proposal, with Thai officials claiming they have not received a direct request from Cambodia. However, ASEAN ministers have agreed that a peaceful resolution is needed, and a high-level meeting between Cambodian and Thai officials is scheduled for December 24.

Cambodia remains committed to diplomacy and hopes that the upcoming talks will help build trust and pave the way for lasting peace.