Thailand and Cambodia to Hold Critical ASEAN Meeting Amid Ongoing Border Conflict
The ASEAN Foreign Ministers will convene tomorrow in a significant attempt to broker peace between Thailand and Cambodia, as the two nations remain embroiled in a tense border conflict. The discussions, which will be chaired by ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim, aim to bring both sides to the negotiating table in a bid to halt the violence that has claimed the lives of at least 19 Cambodian civilians.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page on December 21, Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that the meeting would serve as a platform for both Cambodia and Thailand to engage in direct negotiations. The talks are expected to focus on resolving the ongoing border dispute, ensuring the cessation of hostilities, and “preserving peace and stability in the region.”
“The aim is to resolve differences peacefully and work towards a fair and lasting solution,” Anwar’s statement read. “This meeting will hopefully create an environment for constructive dialogue and cooperation, addressing the humanitarian consequences of the conflict and preventing further escalation.”
The announcement comes as the conflict enters its 14th day, with a reported death toll of 19 Cambodian civilians and at least 79 others wounded. According to reports, the violence intensified in the early morning hours, when Thai forces allegedly deployed toxic smoke near the Preah Vihear temple area—a site located in the disputed border region.
A Worsening Situation
The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has been a longstanding issue, with territorial disputes over areas near the Preah Vihear temple dating back for years. However, the current fighting has escalated dramatically since it reignited on December 7, 2025. Despite previous calls for ceasefire and peace negotiations, the situation has continued to deteriorate, with heavy casualties on both sides.
Humanitarian organizations have raised alarms over the growing number of civilians affected by the conflict, particularly in the areas surrounding the disputed temple. Many villagers have fled the region, seeking refuge in nearby towns as the fighting intensifies.
International condemnation of the violence has mounted, with countries and organizations around the world urging both Thailand and Cambodia to immediately cease hostilities and engage in meaningful peace talks. ASEAN, which comprises ten Southeast Asian nations, has played a significant role in past peace efforts, but the effectiveness of these efforts has been questioned given the continued outbreaks of violence.
ASEAN’s Role in Mediation
ASEAN has historically prided itself on being a mediator in regional conflicts, fostering dialogue and cooperation among its member states. However, the organization faces increasing pressure to find effective solutions to ongoing disputes within its borders, such as the Thailand-Cambodia conflict.
Anwar Ibrahim’s call for peace talks represents the latest in a series of diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions in Southeast Asia. For ASEAN to succeed in its mission, both Cambodia and Thailand will need to demonstrate a willingness to compromise and put an end to hostilities that have cost many innocent lives.
The meeting tomorrow will likely focus on setting conditions for a ceasefire and ensuring the safety of civilians in the conflict zones. There will also be discussions surrounding the role of ASEAN in supporting post-conflict recovery and reconciliation between the two countries.
The Road Ahead
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community will be watching closely to see whether ASEAN’s intervention can bring about a de-escalation of the violence. The stakes are high not only for Thailand and Cambodia but also for the broader Southeast Asian region, where stability remains a key priority for both regional governments and their global partners.
Tomorrow’s meeting is expected to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing crisis, with hopes for a peaceful resolution hanging in the balance.
