Thailand, Cambodia De-escalate Border Tensions After Military Talks

Thailand and Cambodia have made significant progress in easing border tensions through coordinated diplomatic and military efforts, including troop redeployments and joint patrols to restore natural conditions along contested areas. The two countries have agreed to revert troops to their 2024 positions and fill trenches to reduce confrontations, with ongoing discussions facilitated by the Joint Border Committee. A crucial bilateral meeting is scheduled for June 14 in Phnom Penh to further address the longstanding Chong Bok territorial dispute, which stems from colonial-era border demarcations. Both governments emphasize their commitment to peaceful resolution despite historical clashes and recent violence, including a fatal skirmish that heightened tensions. Regional leaders, including ASEAN chair and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, have called for restraint and de-escalation to maintain stability in Southeast Asia. These developments reflect a shared desire to move beyond past conflicts and establish long-term peace along the Thailand-Cambodia border.