Pakistan, July 29 -- A ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia began early Tuesday, bringing hope of peace after five days of intense fighting near their shared border. The truce, which started at midnight, was announced as "unconditional" and aims to stop deadly clashes over disputed ancient temple zones along their 800-kilometre boundary.

On Monday night, artillery sounds near Cambodia's Samraong city continued until just before midnight, but fell silent soon after, signaling the truce had begun. In Preah Vihear province, where some of the fiercest battles occurred, local officials confirmed calm 20 minutes after the ceasefire deadline. The silence brought relief to thousands who had fled their homes.

The recent border viole...