Civilian Deaths Reach 30 as Cambodia Accuses Thailand of Bombing Civilian Areas

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 25, 2025) — Cambodia on Wednesday accused Thailand of repeated attacks on civilian areas, saying bombardments have killed at least 30 people, injured 87 and displaced more than 636,000 since early December.

The Interior Ministry said Thai forces fired artillery and dropped aerial munitions into residential communities between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Dec. 24, damaging homes in Battambang province and injuring one civilian in Banteay Meanchey.

Authorities said the toll since Dec. 7 includes nine displaced civilians who died in temporary camps in Siem Reap. A total of 636,536 people — including 331,707 women and 202,455 children — have been forced from their homes.

The ministry said Thai attacks have damaged or destroyed schools, health centers, pagodas, government buildings, ancient temples, markets, bridges and homes, as well as vehicles, cell towers and roads.

In Battambang’s Banan district on Wednesday, Thai fighter jets reportedly dropped bombs near schools, sending hundreds of students fleeing classrooms in panic, with some children separated from their parents.

Cambodia renewed its call on the United States, China, Malaysia and ASEAN partners to help push for de-escalation, reaffirming its commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful means and international law.