Thai officials prepare to assist evacuees in their homecoming
The ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, reached on July 28, 2025, remains in effect and is being actively implemented with ASEAN mediation, particularly under Malaysia’s leadership. Both countries have committed to honoring the ceasefire and resolving their border dispute through peaceful means [1][3][5].
The situation along the border has stabilized following initial tensions and minor skirmishes, with military commanders from both sides agreeing to halt troop movements, avoid escalation, and establish coordination teams before further border committee meetings [2].
In the aftermath of the ceasefire, local authorities are focusing on helping evacuees return home safely. While specific detailed programs or plans were not explicitly outlined, several measures are being taken [4][5]:
- The ceasefire itself has spared many lives and offered hope for safer conditions along the border, which is crucial for displaced civilians [5].
- Martial law and enhanced security measures remain in parts of Thai border provinces to maintain order and facilitate safe civilian movement.
- Authorities have imposed curfews, evacuation orders, and travel advisories emphasizing crossing only at designated points with proper documentation and enhanced vigilance.
- ASEAN’s role and the establishment of observer mechanisms under the ceasefire agreement aim to reduce misunderstandings, provide credible monitoring, and help secure peace conducive to the return of evacuees [1].
As the return process begins, the government has not yet issued a blanket order for people to return. However, Deputy Defence Minister Natthaphon Nakphanich has asked the acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai to assign police and village security teams to protect evacuees' property [6].
In some areas, residents have already begun returning on their own. For instance, many residents in Ban Kruat district, which was heavily hit, have started their journey home. Thai authorities are preparing to help thousands of evacuees return home in the coming days [7].
The return process is expected to take two to three days, with the first phase prioritizing bedridden patients and those in need of special care. The governor of Buri Ram has not yet authorized a full return, especially for vulnerable groups [8].
Natthaphon Nakphanich has warned residents not to return prematurely due to the danger of unexploded ordnance. To mitigate this risk, the Ministry of Public Health is providing mental health support for Border Patrol Police officers and distributing at least 3,000 sets of N95 masks and basic medicines to frontline staff and residents [9].
The governor of Buri Ram has confirmed that conditions in Sangkha district have fully returned to normal, while Kap Choeng, once a flashpoint, is also calm. Mr Phumtham has instructed the 2nd Army Region to coordinate with the four provincial governors to determine when residents can safely return home [10].
Local authorities have been authorized by Natthaphon Nakphanich to decide on returns without waiting for central government approval. Mr Phumtham is scheduled to visit Si Sa Ket on Saturday to inspect damage and meet evacuees [11].
In the Prasat district, minor damage is being repaired, and water sources are being inspected to prevent disease outbreaks [4]. Overall, the ceasefire is official and backed by ASEAN, with ongoing diplomatic and military coordination to prevent further clashes. Local government security measures and ASEAN-led oversight are the primary supports aiding safe conditions for resident and displaced populations near the border to eventually return home [1][4][5].
- The ceasefire agreement, supported by ASEAN and initiated to resolve war-and-conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia, has brought about a significant reduction in tension along the border, but politics surrounding the return of evacuees and peacefully resolving the border dispute are still ongoing matters.
- In addition to the ceasefire agreement, general news reports indicate that local authorities are taking various measures, such as martial law, enhanced security, curfews, and travel advisories, to ensure safe conditions for civilians as they continue to return home following initial tensions and conflicts.
