Thailand, Cambodia cease fire after five-day fight

The leaders of the two Southeast Asian countries during peace talks Monday agreed to end fighting along their borders, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai met at the Malaysian prime minister’s official residence for the talks. At least 35 people died, hundreds were injured, and more than 200,000 were displaced after fighting began Thursday. The ceasefire was scheduled to begin Monday night.

In his statement, Ibrahim thanked the United States and China for their roles in facilitating the peace talks. President Donald Trump had threatened to stop tariff negotiations with the countries as long as they continued fighting.

How did the fighting start? The conflict stems from a dispute over a 1907 map created by France that marked the border between the countries. The neighbors interpreted the map differently, particularly regarding the control of significant historical and religious sites. Skirmishes have flared along the border for decades, with the most recent tensions rising this spring. International leaders have called on both sides to de-escalate and protect civilians. 

Dig deeper: Read my report about the initial attacks.