Cambodia-Thailand Conflict: Tensions Persist Despite U.S. Peace Efforts

Cambodia has reported being struck by Thailand on December 13, 2025, just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that both countries had agreed to resume a ceasefire. According to Reuters, Cambodian officials stated that fighter jets targeted their border with lethal force, while Thai officials confirmed that the Sisaket province was hit with BM-21 rockets, prompting a naval response that targeted Cambodia's southwestern province of Koh Kong.

The Cambodian Ministry of Information reported that the bombing by Thai forces had not ceased, leading to continued hostilities that began on December 10. Despite Trump's claims on Truth Social that a ceasefire was in place, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that the president's statements did not accurately reflect the situation, suggesting that misinformation was at play.

The tension escalated following a series of incidents, including the suspension of a previous armistice in November after a Thai soldier was killed by a landmine allegedly planted by Cambodia. Malaysia has stepped in to assist with conflict resolution, hoping to secure a peace agreement amidst the turmoil.

The region's leaders are now reviewing information to determine the origin of the recent attacks, as the conflict poses significant challenges to regional stability and international relations in Southeast Asia.