Thailand Releases 18 Cambodian Troops Following Fresh Ceasefire

Cambodia confirmed on Wednesday that Thailand has released 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July. The release follows a newly established ceasefire that has held for over three days after weeks of deadly border clashes. The ceasefire, which took effect at noon on Saturday, halted 20 days of fighting that resulted in at least 101 deaths and displaced more than half a million people on both sides. The conflict included fighter-jet sorties, rocket fire, and artillery barrages. The soldiers were released after the ceasefire remained intact for 72 hours, as per the agreement signed by the defense ministers of both countries. Neth Pheaktra, Cambodia's information minister, confirmed the release, stating that the soldiers had re-entered Cambodian territory. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized the fragility of the ceasefire and called for both sides to ensure its sustainability. The agreement was brokered amid tensions that reignited earlier this month after a previous ceasefire collapsed.