What's happened
ASEAN ministers will meet in Kuala Lumpur to attempt to revive a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, which resumed fighting on December 8. The meeting aims to de-escalate tensions, with regional and international efforts underway. The conflict has resulted in over 60 deaths and displacement of over half a million people.
What's behind the headline?
The upcoming ASEAN meeting in Kuala Lumpur marks a critical juncture in regional diplomacy. The fact that both Thailand and Cambodia are eager to negotiate suggests a recognition that prolonged conflict risks regional stability. The involvement of the U.S. and China indicates international stakes, with each power seeking influence through diplomatic channels. The use of satellite technology and regional monitoring underscores the seriousness of the de-escalation efforts. However, deep-seated mistrust and recent provocations, such as drone attacks and landmine accusations, suggest that a durable peace will require significant concessions. The regional push for dialogue reflects a broader recognition that military escalation could destabilize Southeast Asia, impacting economic and political stability. The outcome of this meeting will likely shape the future of border diplomacy in the region, with potential for either a renewed ceasefire or further escalation if negotiations falter.
What the papers say
The Japan Times reports that ASEAN ministers are seeking to revive a ceasefire, with Thailand and Cambodia attending the first face-to-face talks since hostilities resumed. Reuters highlights the regional and international diplomatic efforts, including U.S. and Chinese involvement, and notes the recent escalation with drone and landmine accusations. Both articles emphasize the importance of the Kuala Lumpur meeting as a pivotal moment for regional peace, with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressing cautious optimism. The coverage from Reuters also details the military exchanges and the complex accusations between the two nations, illustrating the fragile state of peace and the high stakes involved. The differing perspectives underscore the regional and global interest in stabilizing Southeast Asia, with the ASEAN-led dialogue seen as the most promising avenue for resolution.
How we got here
Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia reignited on December 8 after a fragile ceasefire brokered in July 2025 broke down. Both countries accuse each other of military provocations, including drone attacks and landmines, leading to a wider conflict along their 817-km border. The conflict has drawn regional and global diplomatic attention, with efforts from the U.S. and China to broker peace. The ASEAN meeting in Kuala Lumpur is the first face-to-face government engagement since hostilities resumed, with hopes of reaching a lasting resolution.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are China and the US Trying to Broker a Ceasefire Between Thailand and Cambodia?
The recent escalation of conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has drawn international attention, prompting efforts from China and the US to broker a ceasefire. But why are these major powers involved, and what does it mean for regional stability? Below, we explore the latest developments, the role of ASEAN, and how global diplomacy is shaping the future of Southeast Asia.
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Can China and the US Achieve Peace in Southeast Asia?
The ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has drawn regional and international attention, with efforts underway to restore peace. But what roles are China and the US playing in this delicate situation? How likely is a ceasefire, and what does this mean for regional stability? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this complex diplomatic landscape and what it could mean for Southeast Asia’s future.
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Cambodia, officially the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country located in the southern portion of the Indochina peninsula in Southeast Asia.
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Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand and formerly known as Siam, is a country in Southeast Asia. Located at the centre of the Indochinese Peninsula, it is composed of 76 provinces, and covers an area of 513,120 square kilometres, and a population
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Dato' Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim is a Malaysian politician who has twice served as the 12th and 16th Leader of the Opposition since May 2020 and from August 2008 to March 2015.