Cambodia reports continued Thai attacks, alleges South Korean fighter jets used on villages, Preah Vihear temple

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec.24, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence accused Thai forces Wednesday of carrying out sustained attacks on villages and cultural sites, including the Preah Vihear temple, using South Korean fighter jets, drones, heavy artillery, tanks and chemical agents.

The ministry said the alleged assaults occurred between 8 p.m. Dec. 24 and 3 p.m. the same day, affecting provinces including Battambang and Siem Reap.

Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, said Thai forces used heavy artillery, drones and toxic gas between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. in areas including Preah Vihear temple, Ta Thav, Phnom Kmouc, Kol Bram Bei and Phnom Trogol. Additional strikes reportedly targeted Ta Moun temple.

At 11 a.m., Thai fighter jets dropped bombs on Srei Snom in Siem Reap province, while rockets and artillery hit sites near Preah Vihear, according to Cambodian authorities.

Tanks supported by infantry attempted to enter Veal Enty and Preah Vihear around noon, and drone strikes continued throughout the afternoon.

Shelling with heavy guns and rockets was reported at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., with further drone attacks allegedly involving toxic gas at 3:02 p.m.

The ministry said some frontlines remained calm but claimed Thai forces continued attacks elsewhere. Cambodian troops were reported to be monitoring the situation and responding.

The ministry demanded Thailand cease what it described as disinformation and aggressive acts, warning the operations violate Cambodian sovereignty and international law.

Cambodia urged the international community to condemn the actions, hold Thailand accountable and press for withdrawal of Thai forces from Cambodian territory.

Cambodia reiterated its commitment to the cease-fire and the Joint Declaration on the Peace Agreement signed Oct. 26, 2025, and expressed hope Thailand would adhere to the accord and pursue a peaceful settlement of the border dispute.