After a week of escalating violence and mounting international pressure, Thailand and Cambodia have inked an unconditional ceasefire aimed at halting combat on their jungle frontier. The deadly clashes claimed at least 36 lives and forced over 200,000 people to abandon their homes.
Disputes over ill-defined colonial boundaries erupted into open conflict just days earlier, with both nations exchanging rocket and artillery fire along the 500-mile border. The flashpoint areas include ancient temples revered on both sides.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim brokered the latest round of negotiations, with both Thai and Cambodian leaders attending. They agreed that immediate steps would be taken to disengage troops, with further talks set for the coming days.
The ceasefire also received backing from US President Trump, who had warned of trade repercussions if violence persisted. The world now watches to see if the truce holds and civilian lives can be rebuilt.