Analysts Say US Mediation Key to Cambodia-Thailand Peace Efforts

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec.26,2025) — Political analysts in Cambodia say recent high-level contact between the United States and Cambodia signals Washington’s determination to help resolve the border conflict with Thailand.

Kin Phea, a political science expert, said a recent phone call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet reflected what he described as President Donald Trump’s firm stance on ending the violence and achieving lasting peace between the two neighbors.

Phea said the United States is well positioned to play a leading mediation role, alongside regional and international actors such as Malaysia and China. He added that Washington could help push Thailand to fully implement the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord signed in Malaysia.

“The United States has extensive investigative capabilities and advanced technology,” Phea said, adding that Washington would be able to assess responsibility for the outbreak of violence.

He also questioned whether the U.S. could pressure Thailand to stop using fighter jets, including F-16 aircraft, which Cambodian officials have accused of operating deep inside Cambodian territory and striking civilian areas. Thailand has not publicly responded to the claims.

Another analyst, Yang Peou, said he was optimistic U.S. mediation could contribute significantly to resolving the dispute but urged Washington to take firmer and more practical steps.

Peou alleged that the latest round of fighting was initiated by Thailand and pointed to damage to civilian infrastructure, casualties and large-scale displacement in Cambodia as evidence. He said schools had been closed and thousands of families forced to flee

He went further, describing the situation as more than a border clash and calling it an illegal invasion. He claimed Thai aircraft had flown between 70 and 100 kilometers inside Cambodian territory, causing widespread destruction. The allegations could not be independently verified.

Rubio confirmed he spoke with Hun Manet to express concern over the violence. According to an official statement, Rubio reiterated Trump’s desire for peace and the importance of fully implementing the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords.

He said the United States was prepared to facilitate discussions aimed at restoring peace and stability between Cambodia and Thailand.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet welcomed U.S. engagement, reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration and other agreements governing the border issue.

He said Cambodia remained focused on dialogue, respect for sovereignty and adherence to international law as the only path to lasting peace.

Cambodia’s Interior Ministry said at least 30 civilians have been killed, 87 injured and more than 636,000 displaced since fighting reignited on Dec. 7.