Thailand Repatriates 18 Cambodian Soldiers in Ceasefire

Thailand released 18 Cambodian soldiers on Wednesday, repatriating them after 155 days in detention as part of a renewed ceasefire agreement between the two neighboring countries. The handover occurred at the PrumBan Pak Kard Permanent Border Checkpoint linking Cambodia's Pailin province with Thailand's Chanthaburi province, marking a key step in easing tensions along their disputed frontier.

The soldiers, captured on July 29 in Preah Vihear province during an earlier round of fighting, crossed back into Cambodia around 10 a.m. local time. They were among 20 troops detained in trenches shortly after a previous ceasefire took effect. Two were released soon after due to serious health issues, leaving the remaining 18 in Thai custody. Thailand's Foreign Ministry described the repatriation as a demonstration of goodwill and adherence to international humanitarian principles, with the International Committee of the Red Cross supervising the transfer.

Cambodia's Defense Ministry confirmed the soldiers' safe return, stating it created an environment conducive to peace, stability, and normalized relations for the benefit of both nations. In Pailin, the men were greeted by cheering...