SISAKET, Thailand / PHNOM PENH — Two neighboring countries, Thailand and Cambodia, are in serious conflict right now. They’re arguing and even firing weapons at each other over a disputed border area—and things have turned very dangerous.
But there’s a chance for peace: Malaysia has stepped in to help both sides calm down and talk it out, instead of fighting.
🕊️ Malaysia Offers to Mediate the Conflict
Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said on Sunday that both countries—Thailand and Cambodia—have agreed to let Malaysia be the mediator. That means Malaysia will act like a referee between the two sides, helping them solve the issue without more violence.
Minister Hasan said:
“They trust us to help. I’ve spoken to both sides, and they agreed no other country should be involved.”
🛬 Leaders Flying In for Emergency Peace Talks
Both the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai are flying to Malaysia on Monday evening to sit down and talk.
These talks are happening just days after Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim—who is the current ASEAN chair (the leader of Southeast Asia’s regional group)—called for a ceasefire on Friday.
Even US President Donald Trump joined the call for peace and said both sides have agreed to work on stopping the violence.
💥 Deadly Clashes: Civilians Caught in the Crossfire
The fighting, which began just four days ago, has already become the worst conflict in over 10 years between the two countries.
So far, more than 30 people have died—including:
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13 civilians in Thailand
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8 civilians in Cambodia
Military troops from both sides are blaming each other for firing artillery (big, dangerous weapons) across the border. The situation is so tense that over 200,000 people have been forced to leave their homes to stay safe.
💬 Why This Matters
This isn’t just a grown-up argument—it’s affecting kids, families, and entire communities. Many had to run from their homes, and schools in the border areas are now closed.
This is why peace talks in Malaysia are super important. If they work, people can go home, the fighting can stop, and everyone can breathe again.
🌏 What Happens Next?
All eyes are now on Malaysia, where leaders from Thailand and Cambodia are expected to meet. Can they put down their weapons and choose peace? The world is watching—and hoping.
