Thailand Releases 18 Cambodian Soldiers After Months in Detention Following Border Truce
Thailand has released 18 Cambodian soldiers it had held since late July, returning them safely to Cambodia after more than five months in detention under a renewed ceasefire agreement aimed at easing violent clashes along the two countries’ disputed border.
The handover took place on Wednesday morning at the Prum International Border Crossing in Pailin Province, where Cambodian authorities received the soldiers, who were warmly welcomed by officials and the soldiers’ families. Cambodian government statements described the return as a significant moment of relief and goodwill, with crowds gathering to celebrate the troops’ homecoming.
The release followed a ceasefire deal signed on 27 December 2025 after weeks of fierce border fighting that erupted over longstanding territorial disputes. The renewed truce included provisions for both sides to halt hostilities, freeze troop movements and work toward peace, including the return of soldiers detained during earlier confrontations.
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the repatriation as a gesture of goodwill and confidence‑building between the neighbouring states. Cambodian officials also thanked mediators and observers who helped facilitate the process, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, which monitored the transfer.
The detained soldiers had been captured on 29 July 2025, shortly after a previous ceasefire took effect, and were held for 155 days before their release. Their return marks a hopeful step toward reducing tensions and strengthening bilateral ties after months of deadly clashes that displaced civilians and strained relations.
As both countries navigate the delicate peace process, observers say continued cooperation and dialogue will be essential to stabilising the border region and preventing future flare‑ups.