Thailand-Cambodia conflict: can ASEAN achieve a ceasefire?

This Monday, December 22, 2025, an ASEAN meeting in Kuala Lumpur could pave the way for a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia.

Regional leaders are seeking to ease growing tensions at the border between Thailand and Cambodia.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as ASEAN Chairman, stated on Sunday in a message posted on social media that he had spoken with the leaders of the two countries to explore the best way to ease hostilities.

He urged Bangkok and Phnom Penh to prioritize dialogue, wisdom, and mutual respect to preserve peace and stability in the region.

"The meeting of foreign ministers will serve as an appropriate and constructive platform for the two countries to engage in open dialogue, resolve their differences peacefully, and reach a fair and lasting solution," Mr. Anwar wrote.

This meeting is considered an essential platform for Thailand and Cambodia to engage in open discussions, clarify their positions and explore ways to defuse the situation.

ASEAN calls for dialogue but remains faithful to its doctrine of non-interference

Logo of ASEAN and flags of member countries.

The Thai government's joint press center on the situation at the border between Thailand and Cambodia stated:

“The international community expects a lot from Monday's session to help reduce tensions, although it is uncertain whether the talks will result in an official ceasefire.

Thailand and Cambodia have both confirmed their participation, while other ASEAN member states are also sending high-level representatives. »

The press center stressed:

“If ASEAN maintains its long-standing principle of non-interference, the bloc stressed that consultation remains essential when regional peace and security are at stake.”.

The meeting will not be used to pressure Thailand, the country's position is based on international principles, legitimacy and factual evidence.

Thailand did not trigger the clashes and has always maintained clear conditions to end the conflict. »

According to the center, the conclusion of a ceasefire will largely depend on the security assessments on the ground carried out by the Thai armed forces and Cambodia's demonstration of its sincere willingness to end hostilities.

The center added that Thailand's priority was a lasting peace ensuring national security and the safety of civilians.

Thailand claims not to be the aggressor and sets its conditions

The trenches dug by Cambodian troops near the province of Ubon Ratchathani in Thailand that triggered the recent conflict in May 2025. Photo: Thai PBS World

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, speaking in Surin after overseeing the return of two Thai soldiers killed in action, said Thailand had never been the aggressor.

The military operations, he said, are solely aimed at preserving sovereignty and restoring security in previously invaded areas.

He called on Cambodia to cease cross-border provocations, including drone activities.

"Thailand has never been the aggressor nor threatened any neighboring country, and we have not violated any agreement or declaration.

All our actions aim to preserve national sovereignty and security, he said.

A ceasefire still uncertain, pending Cambodia's will

Border posts between Thailand and Cambodia.

"If we want to end the clashes, we need a ceasefire, an end to intimidation and aggression, including the use of drones along the border."

Mr. Anutin also said that evacuation measures in high-risk areas remained at 100% due to intermittent military actions, adding that civilian safety must come first.

“No third country has been invited to act as a mediator in the discussions, as the issue remains strictly bilateral, although ASEAN constitutes an important diplomatic forum,” he said.

Although Thailand is in a pre-election period, he said the government retains full authority to protect national security and take care of its population.

See also:

Traveling to Thailand despite the conflict with Cambodia: what you need to know

Thailand-Cambodia conflict: the United States and China try to calm the game

Thailand-Cambodia conflict: the army says it is targeting cybercriminals and casinos

Thailand-Cambodia: ceasefire collapses, fighting resumes

Mines: Thailand unveils new damning evidence against Cambodia

Source: Bangkok Post