In a significant diplomatic development, Thailand has formally repatriated 18 Cambodian soldiers who had been detained since late July 2025. The transfer occurred on Wednesday, December 31st, marking a crucial implementation of recent bilateral agreements between the Southeast Asian neighbors.
The repatriation operation was conducted under strict observation from both the ASEAN Observer Team and the International Committee of the Red Cross, ensuring transparent and humane treatment throughout the process. The soldiers were transported via military helicopter from Battambang airport to Phnom Penh, completing their journey home after nearly five months in detention.
This military personnel exchange directly fulfills Paragraph 11 of the Joint Statement signed during the 3rd Special General Border Committee Meeting on December 27, 2025. The agreement stipulated that the soldiers would be returned following a successfully maintained 72-hour ceasefire period between the two nations. Additionally, the action honors the spirit of the earlier Joint Declaration between Thailand and Cambodia signed in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, 2025.
Cambodian Defense Ministry spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata confirmed the soldiers’ release, expressing optimism that this confidence-building measure would significantly contribute to regional stability. “Cambodia remains hopeful that this release will significantly contribute to building mutual trust and confidence,” Socheata stated. “We believe this creates an environment conducive to peace, stability, and the full normalization of relations for the benefit of both nations and their people in the near future.”
The incident that led to the soldiers’ capture in July occurred amid ongoing border tensions between the two countries, though specific details surrounding their detention were not disclosed in the official statements. The successful repatriation represents a tangible step toward de-escalation and demonstrates both governments’ commitment to diplomatic resolution of conflicts.