Cambodia-Thailand Border Conflict Ceasefire: Hope Amidst Desolation

After a five-day conflict between Cambodia and Thailand ended in a ceasefire, residents in makeshift shelters prepare to return home. Despite the ceasefire, residents remain cautious due to lingering clashes. The border dispute, escalating since late May, created widespread fear and displacement among civilians.

On Cambodia's northwestern border, residents of makeshift shelters eagerly waited to return home after a fierce five-day conflict with Thailand led to a ceasefire starting Monday night.

Fleeing due to intense fighting, villagers like Meun Saray yearned to reunite with their families. Samraong, capital of Cambodia's Oddar Meanchey province, became a ghost town, desolate with closed shops and empty streets.

Despite the ceasefire, small clashes continued, leaving residents cautious. The conflict highlights the ongoing border dispute escalating since May, affecting lives, businesses, and education along the 800-km border.

(With inputs from agencies.)