Thailand Releases 18 Cambodian Prisoners After Ceasefire

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

Thailand has released 18 Cambodian prisoners, after a continuous 72-hour ceasefire passed without clashes, marking a significant step in easing recent border tensions. The transfer took place at 10.00 am on 31 December 2025 at the permanent Ban Phakkat border checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi province. The Cambodian soldiers had been held by Thai authorities for 155 days prior to their release.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand confirmed that the handover followed the terms set out in Clause 11 of a Joint Statement agreed by Thailand and Cambodia. This statement was signed during the third special session of the General Border Committee meeting for 2025, held on 27 December 2025. The agreement stipulated that the Cambodian soldiers would be returned after a verified 72-hour period of uninterrupted ceasefire.

The release also aligned with the Joint Declaration signed by both countries on 26 October 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, which outlined confidence-building measures aimed at reducing military tensions along the border. According to Thai authorities, the ceasefire period elapsed without any armed confrontation, enabling the agreed transfer to proceed as scheduled. The operation was conducted in coordination with multiple international and regional observers.

During their detention, the 18 Cambodian soldiers were treated in accordance with international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions of 1949. Thai officials stated that the detainees received appropriate care and that the International Committee of the Red Cross was permitted to conduct regular visits. The ICRC also facilitated the delivery of letters between the soldiers and their families throughout the period of detention.

Prior to their return, Thai authorities carried out medical examinations and formally informed the soldiers of their rights under the Third Geneva Convention. The Ministry emphasised that the repatriation was conducted on a voluntary basis and ensured safety, dignity, and respect. The ICRC confirmed that it had notified the families of all 18 soldiers about the release on the same day.

Observers from the ICRC and the ASEAN Observer Team were present to monitor the transfer process. The Thai government said the release reflected its commitment to international humanitarian principles and its intention to strengthen mutual trust with Cambodia. Officials expressed hope that Cambodia would respond with concrete actions to support lasting peace between the two countries.

Khoasod reported that both sides are expected to continue dialogue through established bilateral mechanisms, including the General Border Committee framework. The Thai government has reiterated its readiness to cooperate with Cambodia to maintain stability along the border and prevent future incidents.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand released 18 Cambodian prisoners on 31 December 2025 after a 72-hour ceasefire with no clashes.

• The soldiers had been detained for 155 days and were treated in line with the Geneva Conventions, with ICRC oversight.

• The move follows joint agreements signed in October and December 2025 aimed at reducing border tensions.

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 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-31