Headlines

Cambodia Calls for Ceasefire as Conflict Enters Third Day

Published JUL 26 2025

Story

Above: A Cambodian military truck carrying a BM-21 launcher in Oddar Meanchey province on July 25, 2025. Image credit: TANG CHHIN SOTHY/AFP/Getty Images

The Facts

Cambodia called for an immediate ceasefire to end the conflict between itself and Thailand on Friday as clashes between the two Southeast Asian countries continued into their third day on Saturday.
ABC
RTE.ie
Speaking to reporters following a closed meeting of the United Nations (UN) Security Council, Cambodian U.N. ambassador Chhea Keo said that he had petitioned for an “immediate ceasefire” and the “peaceful solution of the dispute.”
guardian
NZ Herald
In a statement released by Thailand’s permanent mission to the U.N., Thai ambassador Cherdchai Chaivaivid accused Cambodia of “deliberately [avoiding] meaningful dialogue” and called upon the country to “immediately cease all hostilities.”
Spain Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Chaivaivid also confirmed and defended the Royal Thai Armed Forces’ deployment of cluster munitions, which had been condemned by Cambodia, as in line with “the principle of distinction, proportionality, and military necessity” for use against military targets.
Cambodian People's Party
Spain Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Thailand’s foreign minister, Nikorndej Balankura, added that Thailand was “ready” for negotiations, telling AFP that it was open to settling the matter “via diplomatic channels, bilaterally, or even through Malaysia,” but had yet to receive Cambodia’s response.
CNA
TRT Global
In the meantime, the death toll has risen to over 30 across both countries, with Thailand reporting 19 deaths, including 13 civilians, revised down from 14 by the Ministry of Public Health, and six soldiers. In comparison, Cambodia confirmed 13 deaths, with eight civilian and five military fatalities.
Timesofisrael
RTE.ie
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Sources Split

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The Spin

Narrative A

Thailand’s actions are a necessary response to Cambodia’s premeditated and indiscriminate attacks, and are entirely consistent with international law. It is not Thailand, therefore, which must return to dialogue and global norms, but Cambodia, which has consistently rejected negotiations and pursued conflict as a means to settle its disagreements.

Spain Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Narrative B

In the face of continued Thai aggression, Cambodia calls upon the international community to condemn Thailand’s actions and for the perpetrator to cease its unprovoked hostility. Cambodia is committed to finding a diplomatic solution, but will stand firm to protect the nation’s people, sovereignty and territorial integrity against Thai belligerence.