Tensions remain high between Thailand and Cambodia after Thai forces detained 20 Cambodian soldiers hours after a ceasefire ended some of the most intense border fighting in decades. While diplomatic talks are ongoing, Bangkok insists the soldiers must undergo legal processes before repatriation.

Post-Ceasefire Capture Sparks Outcry

On July 30, Cambodian soldiers were taken captive around 7:50am local time—nearly eight hours after a ceasefire had been implemented. Phnom Penh has urged their swift release.

“We call on the Thai side to send all 20 military personnel back to Cambodia as soon as possible,” Cambodian Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Maly Socheata said at a press briefing.

Thailand: Legal Review Underway

Thai military officials said 18 soldiers are in custody (not 20, as Cambodia claims) and will be returned after legal procedures are complete. The Royal Thai Army stated the detainees would be handled in accordance with international humanitarian law.

“The soldiers would be swiftly returned once the legal procedures are completed,” said army spokesperson Major-General Winthai Suvaree.

The precise nature of those legal proceedings remains unclear, but Thai authorities emphasized a comprehensive review of the incident is ongoing.

The confrontation erupted over a disputed border region of jungle and farmland. Long-range rockets and artillery were exchanged over several days, with Thailand deploying jet fighters.

• Thai casualties: 15 soldiers and 15 civilians killed
• Cambodian casualties: 5 soldiers and 8 civilians killed
• Displaced civilians: nearly 300,000 from both sides

The ceasefire, brokered by Malaysia, has held since Tuesday despite both sides accusing each other of violations.

International Calls for Restraint

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged both countries to honor the ceasefire and engage in confidence-building measures.

“This crucial agreement must be fully respected, in good faith, by both sides,” Türk said, calling for lasting diplomatic solutions.

As talks continue, the detained Cambodian soldiers remain a focal point of the conflict’s aftermath, raising concerns about future stability and the fragility of the truce.