Donald Trump has weighed in on the escalating conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, drawing a parallel to the historical tensions between India and Pakistan and calling for an immediate ceasefire. The former US President, currently in Scotland, stated that he had spoken with the leaders of both Cambodia and Thailand in an attempt to mediate an end to the fighting, which has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 33 people.
Trump conveyed his efforts through posts on his Truth Social network, stating, "Just spoke to the Prime Minister of Cambodia relative to stopping the War with Thailand". He followed up with another post, "I have just spoken to the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, and it was a very good conversation. Thailand, like Cambodia, wants to have an immediate Ceasefire, and PEACE". He further added that he would relay the message back to the Prime Minister of Cambodia, expressing optimism that "Ceasefire, Peace, and Prosperity seems a natural" after speaking to both parties.
In addition to his calls for peace, Trump likened the Cambodia-Thailand conflict to the long-standing animosity between India and Pakistan. "Many people are being killed in this War, but it very much reminds me of the Conflict between Pakistan and India, which was brought to a successful halt," he stated.
The comparison is notable given the history of wars and skirmishes between India and Pakistan since their independence in 1947. The two nations have fought several wars, primarily over the Kashmir region, including conflicts in 1947, 1965, 1971, and 1999. These conflicts have had profound regional and global implications.
The Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, while rooted in different historical circumstances, also has a protracted history. The dispute stems from the Franco-Siamese treaties of the early 20th century, which defined the border between Siam (now Thailand) and French Indochina (which included Cambodia). Ambiguities in the demarcation of the border led to disagreements, particularly concerning the Preah Vihear temple. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) awarded the temple to Cambodia in 1962, but tensions over the surrounding territory have persisted. Clashes erupted in 2008 and have continued sporadically, with the current escalation marking some of the worst fighting in recent years.
Trump also indicated that he would not move forward with trade deals with either Cambodia or Thailand until the fighting stopped. "We happen to be, by coincidence, currently dealing on Trade with both Countries, but do not want to make any Deal, with either Country, if they are fighting — And I have told them so!" he asserted. Cambodia and Thailand have been significantly affected by recent tariffs, with a 36 percent tariff on most of their exports scheduled to take effect on August 1st.
The clashes between Cambodia and Thailand have reportedly resulted in a rising death toll and the displacement of tens of thousands of people. Both sides accuse each other of initiating the hostilities. Cambodia has called for an immediate ceasefire and has urged the international community to condemn Thailand's aggression. Thailand has declared martial law in several border districts.
