Thai Forces Detain Cambodian Soldiers Post-Ceasefire, Raising Trust Concerns

Cambodian Minister of Information, Net Pheaktra, has expressed strong concerns regarding the detention of Cambodian soldiers by Thai forces on July 28, 2025, following the implementation of a ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand. According to the minister, on the morning of the same day the ceasefire took effect, Thai soldiers approached Cambodian soldiers, extending a handshake and creating an atmosphere of reconciliation and an end to confrontation. Subsequently, the Thai side surrounded and detained the Cambodian soldiers. Reports indicate that out of 20 Cambodian soldiers, 18 were detained, one was killed, and one managed to escape. The 18 detained soldiers were held as Prisoners of War (PoWs) until December 31, 2025, before being released through the efforts of the Cambodian government and the international community. Minister Net Pheaktra questioned whether the detention of soldiers in an area considered Cambodian territory, after a ceasefire agreement was in effect and fighting had ceased, could be considered the capture of prisoners of war. He stated that Cambodia views this incident not as a detention during combat, but as an exploitation of trust under the ceasefire environment to facilitate the arrest of Cambodian soldiers. The detention, lasting over five months, has left psychological scars on the soldiers, their families, and Cambodian society as a whole. The Minister emphasized that a 'handshake' should symbolize peace and trust. However, if used as a means to lead to detention, it becomes a symbol of lost trust, potentially severely impacting future peacebuilding and confidence between parties. He concluded by stating that this incident demands transparent explanation, independent investigation, and accountability to ensure that the ceasefire is respected and soldiers are protected in accordance with international humanitarian law, preventing such occurrences in the future. Source: CPP Cambodia