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Thailand hands over detained Cambodian troops
Thailand released 18 Cambodian soldiers on Wednesday, nearly five months after their capture during deadly border clashes in July. The move follows a ceasefire agreement reached over the weekend, though the handover was delayed by a day due to Thai concerns over alleged truce violations.
Ceasefire terms and diplomatic pressure
The release was a key condition of the ceasefire signed on Saturday, which requires both nations to freeze frontline positions, prohibit reinforcements, and facilitate the return of displaced civilians. The agreement came after weeks of escalating tensions that forced nearly one million people from their homes.
China played a pivotal role in ensuring the deal held, applying sustained diplomatic pressure after Thailand initially postponed the handover. Bangkok had accused Cambodia of breaching the truce by deploying over 250 drones into Thai airspace on Sunday.
Soldiers' return eases nationalist tensions
The 18 soldiers, dressed in civilian clothing, were escorted across a border checkpoint and greeted by supporters before being handed over to Cambodian authorities. Their prolonged detention had fueled nationalist sentiment in Cambodia, becoming a central demand in ceasefire negotiations.
Thailand's foreign ministry described the release as a "demonstration of goodwill" and urged Cambodia to respond with "concrete actions." Cambodia's defense ministry confirmed the troops' return, expressing hope the move would "build mutual trust and confidence."
Border dispute escalates despite past agreements
The conflict stems from a century-old border disagreement, reignited this year after Cambodian women sang patriotic songs at a contested temple. Clashes in May killed one Cambodian soldier, while five days of fighting in July left dozens dead and thousands displaced.
A previous ceasefire, brokered by then-U.S. President Donald Trump in October, collapsed earlier this month amid mutual accusations of violations. Despite the latest tensions, the current truce appears to be holding, though both sides remain wary.
What's next
Observers will monitor compliance with the ceasefire terms, particularly the ban on reinforcements and drone activity. The return of displaced civilians is expected to begin in the coming days, though the long-term stability of the border remains uncertain.
