Thai PM Rejects Ceasefire with Cambodia as Border Attacks Continue

Pursat, CambodiaThailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that his country has not agreed to a ceasefire with Cambodia, despite US President Donald Trump claiming a truce had been reached. Thai military operations along the disputed Thailand-Cambodia border continue, with fresh air and artillery strikes reported.


Ongoing Attacks

The Cambodian Defence Ministry reported that Thai F-16 fighter jets dropped seven bombs on targets in Pursat province, hitting villages, hotels, and settlements. The Thai navy also reportedly fired 20 artillery shells into Koh Kong province, striking hotels and beaches.

Four Thai soldiers were killed on Saturday, bringing the total fatalities among Thai forces to 14, while Cambodian casualties remain unreported. Over 20 people have died across both nations, nearly 200 wounded, and 600,000 displaced along the 800km (500-mile) border, where the conflict centers on centuries-old temples.


Dispute Over Trump’s Claim

Trump announced on social media that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to “cease all shooting”, citing his mediation with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim. Thailand’s Prime Minister and Cambodian authorities have not confirmed the truce. Anutin emphasized on Facebook that military operations would continue “until no more harm and threats” exist on Thai territory.

Trump also claimed a roadside bomb that injured Thai soldiers was an accident, which Anutin denied, saying it was “definitely not a roadside accident”.


Political Implications

Al Jazeera correspondent Jack Barton noted that the border conflict has boosted Anutin’s popularity amid domestic criticism over flooding and economic issues. With parliament dissolved for a snap election, analysts suggest the Prime Minister may delay any ceasefire until after the polls in the next two months.

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