(Phnom Penh): According to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, more than four months have passed while the families of the 18 Cambodian soldiers anxiously await the safe repatriation of their sons, husbands, and relatives. Meanwhile, diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand appear tense, fragile, and uncertain. A question that has increasingly captured public attention is: Why are the 18 soldiers still being detained, and which party is violating the peace agreement?
At a time when the situation remains silent and unclear, nothing is more important than understanding the international political context, the assertion of sovereignty, and Cambodia’s commitment to advancing a vision of peace.
In this article, I aim to examine and analyze the circumstances under which the 18 Cambodian soldiers continue to be held “illegally” by Thailand for over 100 days, despite the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement calling for their “immediate and unconditional” release.
The delay in releasing these soldiers raises questions about Thailand’s respect for the agreement, as well as its obligations and responsibilities as a signatory. At the same time, Cambodia’s diplomatic efforts—as well as the involvement of multiple partners—continue to push Thailand to respect international humanitarian law and the rights of the detained Cambodian soldiers.
According to Cambodia’s official statement, the arrest of the 18 Cambodian soldiers on 29 July 2025 was “illegal.” Their prolonged detention not only fails to meet humanitarian law standards but also reflects Thailand’s unwillingness to implement or pursue peace in accordance with the agreement made under the oversight of regional and international communities.
This situation has led the public to question whether internal political factors in Thailand are preventing the release, and whether Thailand is using the 18 soldiers as a negotiation tool or political bargaining chip against Cambodia. These are the questions Cambodian citizens are most eager to have answered.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) plays an important role in contacting detainees, ensuring their safety, and relaying information to families. However, despite its involvement, the ICRC has no authority to decide or enforce the release of the 18 soldiers—meaning that any legal compliance or decision rests solely with Thailand.
Cambodia has been using soft, active diplomacy to address the issue, and its appeals have gained support from international organizations, civil society groups, and many countries around the world. The emphasis on the immediate and unconditional release of the 18 Cambodian soldiers, as stated clearly in the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement, underscores that both sides must respect the agreement, and that soldiers must never be exploited as diplomatic tools or political instruments.
Who is violating the agreement?
Judging by the wording and commitments outlined in the signed agreement, the failure to release the 18 soldiers unconditionally—according to an international-level joint statement—clearly indicates that Thailand may be the party failing to abide by the agreement.
Nevertheless, in international politics, no country can openly accuse another of “violating” an agreement. Cambodia continues to rely on evidence and official statements to express its concerns and demands in a soft, diplomatic manner to prevent further tensions and maintain good relations with its neighbor.
The situation of the 18 Cambodian soldiers is far from ordinary. It is a test of Thailand’s political sincerity, its respect for the peace agreement, and its adherence to international humanitarian principles—affecting the entire region. Cambodia has demonstrated a peaceful diplomatic spirit, refraining from violence or hostility toward its neighbor while continuing to work through international peace mechanisms to secure the release of its detained personnel.
This article was first published on Asian Speech.
=FRESH NEWS
