Picture courtesy of Amarin 

 

Cambodia’s Ministry of Defence has formally requested ceasefire talks with Thailand under the General Border Committee (GBC) mechanism, amid continued clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border. Thailand has responded by insisting that Cambodia must demonstrate sincerity by meeting three specific conditions before any ceasefire agreement can be signed. The move signals a possible diplomatic opening but leaves immediate fighting unresolved.

 

The request was made in an official letter dated 22 December 2025, sent by Cambodia’s Ministry of Defence to Thailand’s Minister of Defence. Thai authorities confirmed receipt and acknowledged the request as a step forward within the framework Thailand has already set out. However, Bangkok reiterated that progress depends on concrete actions rather than written assurances alone.

 

Tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border have escalated in recent days, with reports of multiple clashes and the use of heavy weapons in several areas. On 24 December 2025, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs restated its position on the conditions for a ceasefire in the border zones. These conditions include an immediate declaration of a ceasefire by Cambodia, a sustained halt to the use of force, and tangible cooperation on the clearance of landmines.

 

The issue was also discussed during a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting held on 22 December 2025. That meeting paved the way for convening the General Border Committee, following a proposal by Cambodia. The GBC meeting has been scheduled for 24–27 December 2025 in Chanthaburi province, eastern Thailand.

 

Thailand will be represented at the talks by General Nattapong Prua-kaew, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces. Cambodia’s delegation will be led by Major General Nhem Boraden, according to official statements released on 24 December 2025. Both sides have confirmed their participation, framing the meeting as an opportunity to address the situation through established bilateral mechanisms.

 

Thai officials have described the Cambodian letter as a potentially positive signal, while stressing that credibility will be judged by actions on the ground. Security agencies continue to monitor the border closely, reporting that fighting has not fully ceased in several locations. The humanitarian and security implications remain a concern for communities near the frontier.

 

Amarin reported that attention will focus on whether Cambodia meets Thailand’s three stated conditions ahead of or during the GBC meeting. Any agreement reached between 24 and 27 December could shape the prospects for a formal ceasefire and longer-term border stability. Until then, both militaries remain on alert as diplomatic efforts proceed in parallel.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Cambodia formally requested ceasefire talks with Thailand under the GBC on 22 December 2025.

• Thailand insists on three conditions, including an immediate ceasefire declaration and mine clearance cooperation.

• GBC talks are scheduled for 24–27 December 2025 in Chanthaburi, Thailand.

 

Related Story 

Thailand-warns-GBC-talks-may-collapse-over-ceasefire-terms

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-12-24

 

 

It seems a one way ticket. Thailand made its conditions but they don't say what Thailand is doing if Cambodia agrees with it. Negotiations don't workvthis way. It is giving and taking

Are the Cambodians finally realizing they’ve bitten off more than they can chew?

UPDATE
Thai GBC Drafts Text Ahead of Cambodia Talks on Dec 25

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

 

Thailand’s General Border Committee (GBC) secretariat has prepared a draft agreement for negotiations with Cambodia, underlining Bangkok’s readiness for bilateral talks ahead of an official joint meeting. The preparatory work is intended to streamline discussions and clarify Thailand’s position before formal engagement begins.

 

The Thai side of the GBC secretariat met on December 24 from 7.00pm to 9.00pm to compile information and key points for the draft. The meeting focused on aligning the proposed text with Thailand’s stated position and policy within the GBC framework.

 

According to the briefing, the draft will serve as Thailand’s initial proposal for negotiations with Cambodia. It is to be sent to the Cambodian side in advance to allow for prior consideration before the official joint meeting.

 

The planned joint meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 25, at 9.00am. This session is described as Day 2 of the GBC process and is expected to proceed under the established bilateral mechanism.

 

The GBC framework is used by Thailand and Cambodia to manage and discuss border-related issues through formal military and governmental channels. Preparatory drafting by the secretariat is a standard step aimed at ensuring structured and efficient talks.

 

Officials involved in the preparatory meeting concentrated on consolidating factual information and policy-consistent points. The objective was to present a coherent and clearly articulated Thai position during the negotiations.

 

Khoasod reported that the next step will be the official GBC joint meeting on the morning of December 25. Discussions are expected to proceed based on the circulated draft and feedback from the Cambodian side.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thailand’s GBC secretariat drafted a negotiation text on December 24 ahead of talks with Cambodia.

• The draft will be sent to Cambodia before the official joint meeting on December 25 at 9.00am.

• Thailand emphasised its readiness for bilateral negotiations under the GBC framework.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-25

 

Negotiations means that participating parties try to solve a problem by giving and taking. Negotiations are not one sided conditions of take it or leave it. Thailand has set conditions but nowhere we can read what Thailand is willing to do in return

UPDATE
Cambodian BM-21 Rockets Hit Thai Homes as Hill 225 Secured

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin

 

Cambodian forces fired more than 40 BM-21 multiple-launch rockets into Thai territory on the morning of 25 December 2025, striking civilian areas in Klong Pang village, Ta Phraya district, Sa Kaeo province, along the border. The attacks caused widespread damage to non-military homes, local roads, public utilities, farmland and agricultural areas, directly impacting civilian lives and property.

 

According to Thai military sources, the rocket strikes landed entirely within civilian zones, with no military installations reported among the damaged sites. The bombardment marked one of the heaviest uses of BM-21 rockets into civilian areas, i. the current border fighting and significantly escalated the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

 

The 1st Army Region publicly condemned Cambodia over the rocket attacks, stating that the strikes demonstrated no intention to de-escalate the conflict. The statement said the use of BM-21 rockets against civilian areas represented a deliberate violation of international humanitarian law and human rights principles, with severe consequences for innocent civilians and their property. 

 

The incident occurred amid ongoing clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border, particularly around the Ta Kwai Temple–Hill 350–Hill 225 front line. Prior to the rocket attacks, fighting had continued in several contested areas, with both sides reporting active military operations and no full cessation of hostilities.

 

On 25 December 2025 at 09:23, Thailand’s 2nd Army Region announced that Thai troops had successfully secured Hill 225. In a statement posted by the 2nd Army Region, it confirmed that control of Hill 225 had been achieved and that military operations were continuing, including the establishment of security around Ta Kwai Temple and Hill 350 to reinforce troop safety and area stability.

 

Amarin reported that Military operations along the border remain ongoing, with Thai forces maintaining defensive and tactical measures in newly secured areas.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Cambodian forces fired more than 40 BM-21 rockets into Klong Pang village on 25 December 2025, damaging civilian property and infrastructure.

• Thailand’s 1st Army Region condemned the attack as a violation of international humanitarian law and human rights principles.

• Thai troops confirmed they had secured Hill 225, while military operations along the border continue.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-12-25

 

 

As per the update Cambodia targeting civilian rather than military targets reinforces the deceptive attitude that the Thai side anticipates

That is the most likely explanation for those that question a lack of information about Thai policy beyond what they have  requested.

At this time ( 10.29 am ) continuing barrages can be heard .

UPDATE
Thai Army Insists Cambodia Must Declare Ceasefire First

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin

 

Thailand’s Army Chief of Staff has reaffirmed a firm position that Cambodia must be the first to declare a ceasefire, citing its status as the aggressor, as fighting along the Thai–Cambodian border continues. Speaking on 25 December 2025, General Chaiyapruek Duangpraphat said Thai forces have already secured about 90% of sovereign areas under operation, while clashes persist in some locations.

 

The statement came amid ongoing military operations aimed at protecting Thai sovereignty, with the army confirming that actions on the ground remain aligned with previously defined objectives. General Chaiyapruek said remaining tasks in operational areas would be completed as quickly as possible, stressing that Thai troops must continue to perform their duties to the best of their ability while hostilities continue.

 

General Chaiyapruek said it remains unclear whether the GBC process will reach a resolution, as negotiations are still in preliminary stages. He added that further clarity is expected after meetings scheduled for 27 December 2025 between the defence ministers of both countries.

 

Addressing Cambodia’s stance, General Chaiyapruek said Cambodian authorities have sent signals that they wish to move towards a ceasefire. However, he emphasised that Thailand did not initiate the conflict and therefore must continue to defend its sovereignty once the situation escalated.

 

He also rejected suggestions that Thailand should declare a ceasefire simultaneously with Cambodia, saying this approach appeared to be an attempt by Cambodia to shape public perception within Thailand. When asked directly whether Thailand would maintain its position that Cambodia must announce a ceasefire first, he replied unequivocally that this stance remains unchanged.

 

On the military situation, General Chaiyapruek said Thai forces have destroyed or neutralised multiple Cambodian units operating within Thai sovereign territory. He stated that operations have achieved approximately 90% of their objectives in these areas, though Cambodia still retains significant weapons stockpiles deeper inside its territory, details of which he declined to disclose.

 

Amarin reported that Thai forces will continue operations in contested areas while monitoring diplomatic developments through the GBC and upcoming defence-level talks. The army expects to proceed according to plan, balancing ongoing military actions with parallel diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thailand insists Cambodia must declare a ceasefire first, citing its role as the aggressor.

• The Thai army says it has secured about 90% of targeted sovereign areas.

• Diplomatic talks continue, with defence ministers set to meet on 27 December 2025.

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-12-25

 

UPDATE
Thai Soldier Seriously Injured by Landmine Near Ta Kwai Temple

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

 

A Thai soldier has been seriously injured after stepping on a landmine while on duty near Ta Kwai Temple along the Thai–Cambodian border, prompting heightened security measures in the area. The incident occurred at 2.20 pm on 25 December 2025, according to an urgent report released by the Second Army Region. The blast caused severe injuries to the soldier’s left leg, requiring immediate medical evacuation.

 

The injured soldier was identified as Sergeant Major Nititham Srikhamxaeng, who is attached to Unit Ch.6. He was conducting operational duties along the border when he accidentally triggered the landmine in an area close to the historic Ta Kwai Temple. Following the explosion, fellow personnel provided emergency assistance before transporting him for urgent medical treatment.

 

Authorities confirmed that the site of the incident has been secured and is now under strict control to prevent further harm. Military units are carrying out safety inspections and area clearance operations to ensure that no additional explosive devices pose a risk to personnel operating nearby. The Second Army Region stated that all necessary precautions are being taken while investigations continue.

 

Military officials noted that Sergeant Major Nititham is the ninth Thai soldier to be injured by a landmine believed to have been secretly planted by Cambodian forces. This detail has raised renewed concerns about border safety and compliance with international norms regarding landmine use. Relevant agencies are now closely assessing the broader security situation in the area.

 

Khoasod reported that authorities will continue examining the site and gathering evidence to determine responsibility and assess future risks. Updates on Sergeant Major Nititham’s condition are expected as he receives ongoing medical care. The army has pledged to keep the public informed as more details become available.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• A Thai soldier was seriously injured by a landmine near Ta Kwai Temple on 25 December 2025.

• The injured serviceman, Sergeant Major Nititham Srikhamxaeng, sustained severe injuries to his left leg.

• Authorities are securing the area and investigating the incident amid ongoing border safety concerns.

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-25

 

Yhe sovereignty of Thailand is not the issue. There is no need to defend that or use as an excuse. The problem is a conflict about where the border is, as Thailand has not accepted the border since 1907. So   whose sovereignty are they talking about? Has Cambodia no right to do the same?. But Thailand expands the attack now on scamcenters. But who are involved in these scam centers? Thai civilians but also probably higher ranked people although they deny. First a ceasefire on both sides and than talk about how to solve this dispute without ordering that only 1 party start the ceasefire. And stop with unnecessary bombings and damage/demolish statues that are not yours. Probably i will get a lot of thumbs down, but that are modtly of bad informed Thais or people who like the government. But remember war and this kind of troubles are doing so much harm to the country. That is what they have to realize...keep in mind that most things are done now for profit of the coming elections too, so that failing can be blamed on others

I don't know much about the area in dispute.

Is it true that its significance is more cultural and historical?

 

If it isn't an economic issue, couldn't some kind of shared administration be worked out?

 

So sad that lives are being lost.

1 hour ago, cdemundo said:

I don't know much about the area in dispute.

Is it true that its significance is more cultural and historical?

Most simplest answer, the temples can be declared as UNESCO Heritage Sites and as such, UNESCO will give some money earmarked as "reconstruction and upkeep" funds. That's for the temple areas.

 

As for the casinos/scam centers...that's illegal money conveniently cleaned by the casinos going into various corrupt officials and some nasty Chinese triad protected by the CCP.

Flatten the temples, destroy them completely, the world will not stop turning,  then there will be one less excuse for the fighting, If it continues  then Thailand needs to give them a bloody good hiding asap start with a surprise bombing attack on Hun Sens house and ending with the destruction of Anchor Wat.  That should give them something to think about