Cambodia Demands Immediate Ceasefire Amid Escalating Border Clashes with Thailand

UN Security Council Convenes Emergency Session as Tensions Flare

Cambodia has formally called for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” in ongoing border conflicts with Thailand. The plea comes as the United Nations Security Council met Friday to address the escalating crisis, which has displaced tens of thousands and claimed civilian lives.

Cambodia’s Envoy Calls for Peaceful Resolution

At the conclusion of a closed-door Security Council meeting, Cambodia’s UN Ambassador, **Chhea Keo**, stated, “Cambodia asked for an immediate ceasefire — unconditionally — and we also call for the peaceful solution of the dispute.” He further questioned Thailand’s accusations of Cambodia initiating the hostilities, given Thailand’s status as a regional military power.

“The Security Council called for both parties to show maximum restraint and resort to a diplomatic solution,” **Chhea Keo** added. “That is what we are calling for as well.” No other attendees spoke to reporters following the session.

Thousands Flee Border Violence

The fighting, which intensified on Thursday, has forced a mass exodus from border communities. Thai health officials reported that over 58,000 individuals have evacuated to temporary shelters in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces. Meanwhile, Cambodian authorities confirmed more than 23,000 evacuations on their side of the border. The conflict has resulted in at least 19 confirmed deaths in Thailand, predominantly civilians, with Cambodia confirming its first fatality on Friday.

Thailand Implements Martial Law

In response to the escalating violence, Thailand declared martial law on Friday in eight of its districts adjacent to the Cambodian border. Commander **Apichart Sapprasert** of the Border Defense Command confirmed the deployment in seven districts of Chanthaburi and one in Trat. This move signals a significant governmental response to the ongoing hostilities, which began with artillery exchanges and escalated to include air strikes and ground troop movements.

International Concern Mounts

The international community is watching the situation closely. Malaysia has proposed a ceasefire, which Thailand stated it would consider, contingent on “appropriate on-the-ground conditions.” However, Thailand’s Foreign Ministry accused Cambodian forces of continuing “indiscriminate attacks on Thai territory” throughout Friday, alleging a “lack of good faith” and continued endangerment of civilians.

Cambodian envoy to the UN, #ChheaKeo, stated that Cambodia is calling for an “immediate ceasefire—unconditionally—and we also call for the peaceful solution of the dispute.” #ThailandCambodiaBorder #UNSC

— World Today News (@WorldTodayNews) July 26, 2025

Historical Dispute Underpins Current Conflict

The current clashes are rooted in a long-standing border dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations. The situation has deteriorated rapidly, with both sides exchanging blame for the outbreak of violence. The UN has urged maximum restraint and diplomatic solutions, a sentiment echoed by Cambodia’s envoy.

The scale of displacement and casualties underscores the severity of the conflict, raising fears of a protracted confrontation. As of early 2025, border disputes are a significant source of instability in several regions worldwide, with estimated millions displaced annually due to such conflicts globally.