Washington: The White House is urging Thailand and Cambodia to adhere to a ceasefire agreement amid escalating tensions along their disputed border. U.S. President Donald Trump has emphasized the importance of both nations upholding their commitments and has warned of potential sanctions against any party that fails to comply.
According to Thai News Agency, President Trump expects all parties involved to fully honor the agreements they have signed. A White House spokesperson emphasized that accountability is crucial to halting the violence and ensuring a lasting peace in the region. This statement comes after Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declared on Saturday that fighting would persist along the border, contrary to the ceasefire agreement purportedly reached between Trump and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet.
In a related development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand has clarified its stance following Cambodian Senate President and former Prime Minister Hun Sen's announcement of a border closure and suspension of cross-border travel. The Ministry highlighted the humanitarian crisis unfolding at the border, where approximately 6,000-7,000 Thai citizens are stranded at the Poipet crossing, eager to return to Thailand due to safety concerns.
The suspension of cross-border travel is seen as a breach of human rights and international humanitarian law, compelling both nations to adhere to their international commitments. Thailand has expressed urgency in ensuring the safety of its citizens, but Cambodia's request to postpone the border reopening remains unexplained.
Meanwhile, Cambodia's Interior Ministry announced a halt to all cross-border travel with Thailand, citing alleged violations of Cambodian sovereignty by Thailand, which have resulted in civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. The Ministry advised Cambodians in Thailand to continue their daily lives and urged Thais in Cambodia to remain until a ceasefire is reached.