Thailand Cambodia Soldier Release 2025: 18 Troops Return Amid Fragile Ceasefire

155 days in custody have finally come to an end. In a significant step toward de-escalating one of Southeast Asia's deadliest border disputes, Thailand has released 18Cambodian soldiers detained since July. The move comes just three days after both nations agreed to a renewed ceasefire following weeks of intense military clashes.

The Path to the Thailand Cambodia Soldier Release 2025

According to a statement from Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the repatriation on Wednesday served as a "demonstration of goodwill and confidence-building." The soldiers arrived at the Prum border gate in Pailin province at 10am local time. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence confirmed their arrival, marking the conclusion of their 155-day ordeal in Thai custody.

The conflict had reignited earlier this month after a previous ceasefire, brokered by US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, collapsed. The ensuing violence was devastating, claiming at least 101 lives and displacing over 500,000 people across the region. The clashes featured heavy artillery fire and fighter jet sorties, highlighting the severity of the territorial rift.

Diplomatic Hurdles and Regional Stability

The latest ceasefire took effect on Saturday, but the soldier handover wasn't without drama. Originally scheduled for Tuesday, Thailand delayed the release, citing alleged breaches of the agreement by Cambodia. While Phnom Penh denied the accusations, the momentary friction underscored the fragility of the peace deal. Analysts suggest that the successful return of the troops today is a vital pulse check for regional diplomacy.