Withdrawal of weapons at the border: Thailand and Cambodia are negotiating!

Withdrawal of weapons at the border: Thailand and Cambodia are negotiating!

The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is once again affecting the region. The current focus is on discussions on disarmament. On October 31, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., the two nations will sign a “Meeting Memorandum” at the Chong Chom-O’Smach border checkpoint regulating the simultaneous withdrawal of weapons. A withdrawal is planned in three phases over six weeks. The first step involves the withdrawal of multiple rocket launchers from November 1st, followed by the 155mm artillery pieces on November 22nd and the withdrawal of armored vehicles on December 13th. But the peace is fragile.

How Nation of Thailand Reportedly, Cambodia is pushing for the 155mm artillery to be included in the first phase, while Thailand is insisting on the second phase. This shows the deep-rooted tensions and lack of trust between the two countries. The 2,470 unexploded explosive devices found at the border are particularly explosive. Minister of Defense Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit stressed that results are expected in three areas within three months: the withdrawal of heavy weapons, the clearance of explosives and the reorganization of the border area.

Current security situation at the border

Despite efforts to ease tensions, both countries must act cautiously. The Thai armed forces have prepared for possible further conflicts and are increasing border surveillance. After all, there was a recent exchange of fire between Cambodian and Thai troops on September 27, 2025. Thailand is currently holding 18 Cambodian prisoners from a previous border conflict in which over 40 soldiers and civilians lost their lives. The climate remains tense as there are mutual accusations about the start of the violence and who is responsible for it.

Loud Asia Times Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen even called on his compatriots to boycott Thai goods and currencies. This aggressive approach shows how politically charged the situation is. Hun Sen released a video of a Thai soldier shooting life-size images of him, condemning it as inhumane. On the Thai side, the aggressiveness was also pointed out, and the military spoke of a serious violation of international law.

Historical roots of the conflict

The long-running border conflict is not new and is rooted in French colonial maps that are over 100 years old. Historical disputes and the pursuit of territorial integrity are fueling tensions even further. The conflict reached a climax on July 25, 2025, when fierce fighting between troops resulted in at least 15 deaths. More than 100,000 residents were evacuated from their homes. Here too, heavy weapons from both sides were used and unfortunately civilian targets were affected.

The future remains uncertain. As Thailand and Cambodia attempt to negotiate a détente, there are many stumbling blocks along the way. Thailand will closely monitor Cambodia's progress and has already indicated international action should the agreement not be implemented as planned.