Tehran added that regional countries had made proposals to reduce tensions, but said responsibility lay with Washington because “we are not the party that started this war.”

Hourse before, Trump said on Truth Social that the US. and Iran had held “very good and productive conversations” over the previous two days on a “complete and total resolution” of hostilities in the Middle East. 

He said he had instructed the Department of War to postpone “any and all military strikes” on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days, subject to the success of further talks.

Despite Iran’s sceptical response, markets appeared to treat Trump’s statement as a signal that immediate escalation might be avoided.

Oil prices fell sharply. Brent crude, the global benchmark, dropped to just above $100 a barrel after settling at $112.19 on Friday. 

The move reflected investor hopes that a pause in U.S. military action could reduce the risk of a deeper supply shock, even as the Strait of Hormuz remained a central concern for traders. 

The waterway normally carries as much as one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, but shipping traffic out of the Gulf has been effectively halted because of the danger of attacks on vessels.

Equity markets also recovered after Trump’s post. The S&P 500 opened nearly 1.5% higher on Monday, reversing a 1.5% fall on Friday. In Europe, the Stoxx 600 rose more than 1% in afternoon trading, while Germany’s DAX jumped nearly 2%. Britain’s FTSE 100 edged higher.

This market rebound came despite continued warnings about the economic risks of the conflict. Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency , said on Monday the global economy faced a “major, major threat” from the war, adding that no country would be immune if the crisis worsened.

Footage captured by Viory in Bangkok showed traffic flowing normally as people moved through the city, passing shopping centres and convenience stores, suggesting a return to everyday life even as uncertainty over the ceasefire lingered.

Several locals questioned whether the ceasefire would hold, citing previous breakdowns in relations between the two neighbours. Some expressed hope that the agreement would hold, while others voiced doubts rooted in past experience.

Visitors also weighed in on the development, with some stressing that any effort to end the fighting was positive. A visitor from South Korea described the ceasefire as a necessary first step towards peace , noting that conflict brings harm to all sides.

Thailand and Cambodia signed the ceasefire on Saturday after delegations met at a border checkpoint in Thailand’s Chanthaburi Province. The agreement followed weeks of escalating violence along the border, during which both countries reported military and civilian casualties.

India–Pakistan ceasefire agreement (South Asia)

In May 2025, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire after a period of heightened military tensions along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. The agreement was welcomed as a significant diplomatic step toward reducing hostilities between two nuclear‑armed neighbours who have fought repeated clashes in the region for decades. However, in the weeks following the deal, there were reports of minor violations and exchanges of fire, illuminating the fragile and contested nature of the truce. Despite these challenges, the ceasefire created space for renewed diplomatic engagement and prevented further large‑scale escalation in 2025.

DRC–Rwanda peace agreement (Central/East Africa)

On 27 June 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda signed a US‑brokered peace agreement aimed at stemming long‑running conflict and militia activity in eastern DRC. The accord outlined a timetable for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and the creation of joint security mechanisms, along with broader frameworks for cooperation among Great Lakes states. Although widely seen as an important diplomatic breakthrough with the potential to stabilise the region, implementation has faced serious practical and security challenges. Militia activity, logistical obstacles, and mutual mistrust have slowed progress, and the agreement’s long‑term impact depends on sustained political will from both capitals.

Cambodia–Thailand ceasefire (Southeast Asia)

On 26 October 2025, Cambodia and Thailand signed the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord during the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, establishing an interim ceasefire and steps to de‑escalate longstanding border tensions. The agreement was backed by regional leaders and U.S. President Donald Trump, who played a visible role in encouraging both sides to halt hostilities. The accord included provisions such as coordinated troop withdrawals, joint de‑mining operations, and international monitoring to reduce accidental clashes along disputed frontier zones.

The deal was built on earlier ceasefire efforts mediated by Malaysia as ASEAN chair and supported by Trump, after months of sporadic clashes and large-scale displacement. While the agreement was widely hailed as a diplomatic success, skirmishes and disagreements over implementation persisted in some sectors. Renewed fighting in December 2025 prompted a special ASEAN ministerial meeting to revive and reinforce the peace process originally supported by regional leaders and Trump. Despite its challenges, the accord marked a significant step in structured cooperation between the two governments.

United Nations high-level conference on the Two-State Solution (Middle East)

In July 2025, the United Nations convened the Palestine Two‑State Solution Conference, a high-level meeting aimed at reinvigorating international efforts toward a two-state resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The conference brought together representatives from countries across the Global South and other regions to discuss diplomatic strategies, coordinate international support, and identify concrete steps for sustained peacebuilding. The event fostered dialogue and strategic planning, it did not result in a binding agreement or a final political resolution, serving primarily as a forum to strengthen international coordination around the two-state solution framework.

Israel–Hamas ceasefire (Middle East)

In October 2025, Israel and Hamas agreed to a U.S.‑backed ceasefire to pause one of the most destructive phases of the Gaza conflict that began in October 2023. The first phase of the deal included Israel withdrawing forces to agreed positions inside Gaza and Hamas releasing hostages held since the 2023 attacks, while both sides pledged to reduce hostilities and allow increased humanitarian access across crossings. This agreement was hailed internationally as a significant step toward ending active large‑scale fighting after two years of intense conflict.

Despite the truce entering into force and creating periods of relative calm, the ceasefire has been fragile and contested. Both sides have accused one another of violations, and periodic exchanges of fire have occurred, complicating efforts to implement subsequent phases of the deal. Independent sources report that — even after the ceasefire — hundreds of Palestinians have been killed in incidents that local health authorities attribute to Israeli operations, and humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain severe, with disputes over aid delivery and access continuing to impede relief efforts.

The ceasefire has not yet resulted in a comprehensive political settlement to the broader Israeli‑Palestinian conflict. Negotiations over long‑term governance, security arrangements, and disarmament have stalled, and international pressure persists to ensure that the agreement holds and leads to expanded humanitarian and reconstruction initiatives.

Guyana–Venezuela — diplomatic talks over Essequibo dispute (South America)

In 2025, diplomatic engagement continued between Guyana and Venezuela over the long‑standing Essequibo territorial dispute. Regional organisations and international mediators worked to prevent escalation after a period of heightened tensions in prior years, and both governments engaged in dialogue to manage disagreements. Although no formal settlement was reached during this period, sustained diplomacy contributed to maintaining relative stability in northern South America. The case remains before the International Court of Justice, and continued negotiations have been viewed as crucial in preventing renewed conflict over the disputed territory.

Although many of these agreements and conferences did not result in final resolutions or full implementation, they represent important steps towards the peaceful management of complex conflicts. The persistence of tensions, implementation challenges, and the fragility of some accords demonstrate that diplomacy is an ongoing process, requiring sustained political commitment and international cooperation. The developments of 2025 underline the relevance of Global South participation and leadership in maintaining dialogue and coordinating international efforts to address geopolitical and humanitarian challenges that continue to affect millions of people worldwide.

“We’ll be involved. We’re sending some of our biggest and greatest companies over to the two countries, and we’re going to take out some of the rare earth and take out some of the assets and pay, and everybody’s going to make a lot of money,” he said.

The ceremony was held at the newly-renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace , with a sign installed the day before. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame signed on behalf of their countries.

The agreement builds on a deal originally signed by the foreign ministers of each country in June. Both government s have previously accused each other of failing to uphold the terms of the agreement. Tensions between the DRC and Rwanda remain, with ongoing fighting between government forces and militants that Rwanda backs, Kinshasa claims, an allegation Kigali denies.

In addition to addressing the peace process, the agreement includes an economic component to increase trade between the two African nations and the United States .

The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the most mineral-rich countries in the world, with an estimated wealth of $24 trillion in natural minerals. Many of these minerals are vital for expanding the IT and AI industries, on which the U.S. relies. So far, China has led the way in tapping into the DRC’s reserves; today, Trump is hoping to change that.

Trump’s clear incentives for brokering peace may trigger alarm bells for many, however, the DRC’s government asserts that “sovereignty over resources remains entirely Congolese”. DRC Presidential spokesperson Tina Salama told the press this deal “is not 'peace in exchange for minerals', as has been claimed - it is about securing minerals to deprive the war of financing”.

Control of eastern Congo’s mineral wealth has long been a central driver of the region’s instability. Rebel militia groups like M23 often seize mines and key transport routes to extract revenue. Minerals like cobalt, copper and gold are easily smuggled out of the country and provide a reliable source of income that can be used to pay fighters, buy guns and maintain territorial control.

U.S. investment in Congo’s mining industry could ensure that everyday Congolese people benefit from the wealth extracted from their country’s mines and help starve militia groups of funding.

However, even as Rwanda’s President Kagame and the DRC’s President Tshisekedi arrive in Washington, the fighting rages on in eastern DR Congo. The fighting sides on the ground are less swayed by the U.S. president’s appetite for economic deals and so preliminary accords agreed over the summer, in Washington and Doha, have often been ignored.

This week, both Rwanda and the DRC have accused the other of sabotaging peace talks with ceasefire violations, and few expect today's deal to have an immediate impact on the ground.

Ultimately, whether this deal delivers peace will be decided not in Washington, but in the hills where militias still trade bullets for minerals.

Cambodia has begun pulling back heavy weapons from its border with Thailand, marking the first phase of implementing the peace agreement signed in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday. Defence Ministry spokeswoman Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said the withdrawal began late on October 26, with ASEAN observers inspecting returning armoured vehicles in Siem Reap the following morning. The move follows the joint declaration signed by Prime Ministers Hun Manet and Anutin Charnvirakul, witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian leader Anwar Ibrahim.

General suspended for pistol-whipping woman in traffic dispute

Cambodia’s National Military Police have suspended Brigadier General Chhim Chhem and referred his case to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court after he pistol-whipped a woman during a traffic altercation. Chhem is charged with “intentional acts of violence” under Article 217 of the Criminal Code, which carries a sentence of six months to three years. Authorities said Chhem attacked 20-year-old Pen Sokna after she blocked his car and demanded $5 in compensation for damage to her motorcycle. He has admitted guilt and pledged to compensate the victim.

Cambodia to scrap all tariffs on US goods under landmark trade deal

Cambodia will remove all tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products under a new trade agreement announced by the White House, granting American exporters unprecedented market access. The deal, signed alongside the ASEAN Summit, commits Cambodia to eliminate duties on US food, machinery and manufactured goods, while Washington will maintain a 19% reciprocal tariff, except for certain products that will face none. Phnom Penh also pledged to cut non-tariff barriers, recognise US safety and agricultural standards, and bolster labour, environmental and intellectual property protections. President Trump hailed the pact as “a forward-looking and tough trade deal” benefiting American workers and farmers.

Four foreigners arrested in Siem Reap over online ‘love scam’

Cambodian authorities have arrested four foreign nationals in Siem Reap for allegedly running a cryptocurrency “love scam” targeting victims abroad. The joint operation, carried out on October 24 by provincial police and prosecutors, led to the arrest of three Chinese men — Xiao Song, Han Jiajia and Qin Cilong — and a Vietnamese woman, Luong Thi Que, at a rented villa in Sala Kanseng Village. Officers seized computers, phones and other evidence. The suspects admitted to posing as online romantics to defraud victims. Officials said the arrests form part of Cambodia’s wider crackdown on technology-based crime.

Cop killed in Kampong Thom drug raid

A police officer was killed and another seriously injured after a drug dealer opened fire with an AK-47 during a crackdown in Kampong Thom province on October 23. The shooting occurred in Bek Chan village, Taing Kork district, when suspect Thorn Dina, 29, and an accomplice opened fire on officers, killing Lieutenant Colonel Huon Saway and injuring Lieutenant Colonel Tim Channy. The suspects fled on a motorbike toward Kampong Cham province. Police have launched a manhunt. 

Alongside the peace deal, Trump announced a raft of new trade and defence agreements with Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam, signalling a renewed US economic push in a region increasingly shaped by China’s influence.

Malaysia emerged as the biggest economic winner. Under a new reciprocal trade agreement, Kuala Lumpur will cut or eliminate nearly all tariffs on US exports, ending long-standing barriers on American agricultural goods, motor vehicles, and industrial products. The deal also commits Malaysia to recognise US regulatory standards, streamlining future trade.

The United States and Malaysia further elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a move accompanied by major commercial deals. These include multi-year agreements for up to $3.4 billion in annual LNG purchases, $42.6 million in coal sales, and a landmark order for 30 Boeing aircraft with an option for 30 more.

Additional purchases of US semiconductors, aerospace components, and data centre equipment are expected to total $150 billion. The two countries also signed an MOU on critical minerals, expanding cooperation across exploration, extraction, and manufacturing.

Cambodia also gained from Trump’s visit. In exchange for signing the peace accord, Phnom Penh secured the removal of a US arms embargo and an agreement to restart the Angkor Sentinel joint defence exercise, suspended since 2017. Cambodian officers will also gain more training opportunities at American military academies.

Trump and Prime Minister Hun Manet agreed to deepen collaboration against transnational crime, including cyber scams and narcotics trafficking, which Washington says cost Americans billions each year.

In Thailand, Trump and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced a new framework for reciprocal trade that could eliminate tariff barriers on 99% of goods. They also signed a memorandum to boost cooperation on critical minerals, cybercrime , and supply chain resilience.

Vietnam joined the list of beneficiaries as Trump unveiled a framework for a fair and balanced trade agreement that would grant preferential market access to nearly all US industrial and agricultural exports.

Trump’s short visit ended with him attending the annual US-ASEAN Summit, where he pledged America ’s continued commitment to regional peace and prosperity. 

Trump arrives on a high note after Hamas and Israel agreed to the first phase of a plan he has drafted for Gaza. The timing coincides with the Nobel Prize Committee’s announcement week, including the coveted Peace Prize that Trump has long sought.

At least 43 people were killed in early August after five days of fighting along the Cambodian–Thai border. The clashes ended on August 7, following a ceasefire mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Four diplomatic and Malaysian government sources told This Week in Asia that Trump wanted the ceremony to showcase his role in initiating the peace process. Politico reported that the White House made the ceremony a condition for Trump’s attendance and requested that Chinese officials be excluded from the event.

Washington has not issued any formal demands to Malaysia as this year’s ASEAN chair. “(The peace deal ceremony is) potentially happening, yes, but it has yet to be finalised,” a source told This Week in Asia, adding that it also depended on Thailand ’s approval.

Border tensions remain high despite the ceasefire. Both sides have accused each other of violations, with militaries still on alert. Nationalists in Thailand and Cambodia have pressured their governments not to concede territory.

Thailand’s new prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, took office last month after parliament voted out Paetongtarn Shinawatra for an ethics breach linked to a leaked call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. Anutin has pledged to dissolve parliament within four months to allow new elections and a constitutional referendum.

The 2025 Asean Summit is expected to draw global attention, with confirmed attendance from China’s Premier Li Qiang, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa.

All 10 ASEAN leaders are expected to seek bilateral meetings with Trump to discuss trade relief, following the imposition of US tariffs ranging from 10% to 40% on exports from the region since August. Economists have warned that the tariffs could slow Southeast Asia’s growth and push countries to find new export markets.

Washington has overtaken Beijing as Kuala Lumpur’s largest export market, with bilateral trade reaching $78.3 billion in 2022. Across Asean, however, China remains the dominant partner for the 16th straight year, with trade totalling $597 billion in the first seven months of 2025.

A recent regional survey found that 52.3% of Southeast Asian respondents preferred the US as a long-term strategic partner, compared with 47.7% for China. Those figures came before Trump’s new tariffs, which have hit ASEAN members at varying levels: Laos and Myanmar at 40%, Brunei at 23%, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia , Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia at 19%, and Singapore at 10%. 

As Asean leaders prepare to focus on trade and regional stability, Trump’s attention appears fixed elsewhere — on a symbolic peace deal, and the Nobel Peace Prize he still hopes to claim.

What’s in the Agreement?

According to news agency Reuters, the deal , negotiated with strong U.S. involvement, includes several core components:

Why now?

The war, which began in October 2023, has led to the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians and more than 1,200 Israelis, according to international observers. Efforts at de-escalation had repeatedly failed until recent weeks, when diplomatic momentum increased due to a combination of U.S. pressure, mounting international outcry, and shifts in political dynamics inside Israel and Gaza.

What Are the Phases of the Deal?

The deal is structured in three phases :

Who brokered the deal?

The deal was brokered primarily by the United States, with former President Donald Trump playing a direct diplomatic role. According to AP , Trump is expected to visit Israel in the coming weeks to address the Knesset and push for continued progress on post-war arrangements.

What’s the reaction?

In Jerusalem, residents expressed cautious optimism. “We’re very happy to hear that. It’s about time. After two years, we want our people back,” said one resident in footage aired by local broadcasters. The hostage releases are especially significant to Israeli public opinion, which has remained fixated on their return.

Palestinian factions have issued mixed responses. While Hamas has agreed to the terms, some factions have criticised the deal for not including clearer terms on lifting the full blockade of Gaza.

International reaction has been largely positive, with France, the UK, Egypt, Qatar, and the UN issuing statements of support for the ceasefire and urging both sides to adhere to its terms.

What Comes Next?

Even if fully implemented, the agreement leaves several major questions unresolved:

Experts warn that while the deal is a diplomatic breakthrough, lasting peace will require broader negotiations, including a potential return to talks on a two-state solution.