'Very much' remind me of India-Pak conflict: Trump mediates Thai-Cambodia ceasefire

United States President Donald Trump has called for a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia as tensions escalate along their shared border. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed concern, stating the conflict 'very much' reminds him of the long-standing hostilities between India and Pakistan.

In a series of posts made on Saturday, Trump disclosed that he had initiated contact with the leaders of both nations in an effort to mediate a cessation of hostilities. 'I am trying to simplify a complex situation! 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 noted, referencing his past involvement in the India-Pakistan tensions.

The military clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have reached a critical level, reportedly resulting in at least 33 deaths, surpassing casualties from earlier conflicts in the region. According to reports, Cambodia has confirmed 13 fatalities, which include eight civilians, while Thailand's toll stands at 20 deaths, 14 of which are civilians. The violence, now ongoing for three days, has involved the use of heavy artillery, tanks, and air force operations.

Trump highlighted the urgency of restoring peace by stating that both parties expressed a desire for immediate talks regarding a ceasefire. He warned that the United States would refrain from engaging in trade negotiations until the violence ceases. Trump's quote reinforced this stance: '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.' 

The President's remarks came shortly after conversations with the leaders of both countries. He described the discussions as positive, indicating a shared willingness between Thailand and Cambodia to work towards an agreement. In a follow-up statement, Trump remarked, 'After speaking to both Parties, Ceasefire, Peace, and Prosperity seems to be a natural. We will soon see!'

According to reports, the ongoing conflict has resulted in the evacuation of over 138,000 individuals from Thailand's border regions and approximately 35,000 displacements in Cambodia. Humanitarian concerns are mounting, as the escalating violence continues to threaten civilian lives and disrupt local communities.

In response to the growing crisis, the United Nations Security Council convened an emergency meeting last Friday to address the situation, underlining the urgency of international mediation to prevent further loss of life and promote dialogue.

The reference to the India-Pakistan conflict in Trump's statements is significant, particularly as tensions have also flared recently between these two nuclear-armed nations. A military conflict began following India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7, aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation was initiated shortly after a terrorist attack in India, which claimed 26 civilian lives. A ceasefire was subsequently announced on May 10, though India disputes Trump’s claims of facilitating the truce, asserting it was a bilateral agreement.

As the situation between Thailand and Cambodia continues to unfold, Trump’s involvement and perspective will certainly influence the diplomatic landscape of the region. Analysts are watching closely as leaders from both nations navigate the delicate balance of seeking peace while managing the aftermath of violent conflict. The hope remains that international pressures, including those from the United States, will help facilitate a peaceful resolution and restore stability to the region.