Thailand Roundup: Border ceasefire, air quality alert, royal rites

Thailand and Cambodia agree to ceasefire after deadly border clashes

Thailand and Cambodia signed a ceasefire agreement on Saturday, December 27, to end nearly three weeks of intense fighting along their shared border that killed more than 100 people and displaced over half a million civilians. The truce, signed by Thai Defence Minister Natthaphon Narkphanit and Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha, took effect at noon local time and applies to all types of weapons, including attacks on civilians, infrastructure and military targets. Both sides agreed to freeze troop deployments, refrain from provocative actions, avoid spreading false information, and maintain open communication. The deal also provides for ASEAN observers to monitor implementation, while Thailand has committed to releasing 18 Cambodian soldiers within 72 hours if the ceasefire holds. The United Nations, China, Malaysia and the United States welcomed the agreement as a positive step toward restoring peace, with talks involving Thailand, Cambodia and China scheduled to take place in Yunnan.

Thailand accuses Cambodia of breaching ceasefire with drone activity

Thailand’s army has accused Cambodia of violating the newly signed ceasefire, claiming more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles were detected flying from the Cambodian side on Sunday night, December 28. In a statement issued on December 29, the Royal Thai Army said the alleged activity constituted provocation and could force Thailand to reconsider the release of the 18 detained Cambodian soldiers. Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn described the incident as a minor issue related to drone flights observed by both sides along the border. The accusations came shortly after China and the United States praised the ceasefire as a hard-won breakthrough, amid longstanding tensions between the two neighbours that have periodically erupted into violence over disputed border areas.

Israeli-led dance festival in northern Thailand cancelled amid threats and vandalism

An Israeli-led series of electronic dance events in Pai, northern Thailand, has been cancelled after organisers reported online incitement, vandalism and mounting pressure from local authorities. The Loop Festival, organised by Israeli residents working with international collaborators, faced accusations on social media following its first event, alongside incidents in which promotional materials were burned, and equipment was destroyed or stolen. Despite holding a second event at an alternative venue, organisers said authorities later informed them that future parties would not be allowed to proceed. The founders said the cancellations resulted in significant financial losses and expressed concern over antisemitic rhetoric, while stating they did not blame local residents who felt threatened by the controversy.

Bangkok warns of higher PM2.5 pollution risk over New Year period

Bangkok’s Air Quality Information Centre has warned of an increased risk of PM2.5 pollution buildup between December 28 and January 1 due to weakening air ventilation. According to the updated outlook covering December 26, 2025, to January 3, 2026, air circulation is expected to be relatively good on December 26–27, before deteriorating from December 28–30 and remaining poor through New Year’s Day. Authorities said heavy traffic and outdoor activities could worsen pollution levels, particularly between 6:00 pm and 9:00 am in inner-city and downwind areas. Conditions are expected to improve from January 2–3. Residents, especially children and older people, were advised to limit outdoor activities during high-risk periods and monitor air quality.

Public access adjusted for New Year’s Day royal rites at Grand Palace

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration announced that public access to pay final respects to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, at Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall will be suspended on January 1. Members of the public will instead be able to sign the book of condolences and pay respects in front of her portrait at the Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion from 8 am to 5 pm. Ticket sales for full tours of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha will be cancelled on New Year’s Day, though access to the Emerald Buddha Temple will remain open via a designated gate. Authorities said nearly 395,000 people have paid their respects since October 27.