Thailand Releases 18 Soldiers Held Captive After July Fighting

Thailand has finally released 18 Cambodian soldiers captured during intense border clashes in July 2025, marking a pivotal step toward de-escalating longstanding tensions between the two nations. This humanitarian gesture comes after months of diplomatic wrangling, fragile ceasefires, and mutual accusations, bringing relief to families and easing regional anxieties.

Background of the Clashes

Fighting erupted on July 24, 2025, along the disputed Thai-Cambodian border near sites like the Preah Vihear temple, reigniting a territorial dispute dating back decades. Over five initial days, artillery exchanges and airstrikes killed at least 30 Thai and 13 Cambodian troops, displacing over 300,000 people. The 18 soldiers were detained on July 29 shortly after a preliminary truce, which Phnom Penh labeled as unlawful captivity.​

Prolonged Detention and Global Pressure

Held for 154 days, the soldiers became a focal point of talks, with International Committee of the Red Cross visits verifying their well-being. Cambodia, backed by 73 NGOs and leaders like Hun Manet, pressed urgent humanitarian appeals citing the Geneva Conventions. U.S. mediation—led by President Donald Trump and Marco Rubio—alongside Malaysian efforts, yielded a peace deal in October and a fresh ceasefire on December 27.​

December Ceasefire and Hurdles

Defense ministers signed the pact, stipulating release after 72 incident-free hours starting December 27. Thailand initially delayed, citing Cambodian drone incursions—claims denied by Phnom Penh, which banned their border use. The front stayed quiet despite renewed December fighting that added 101 deaths and over 500,000 displacements.​

Release and Future Outlook

Confirmed on December 31, 2025, the handover fulfills humanitarian terms, paving the way for civilian returns and phased disarmament. Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha hailed it as goodwill, while Bangkok urged ongoing security caution. This resolution bolsters hopes for lasting peace under ASEAN auspices, healing wounds from a costly conflict.