Cambodia Says Thai Rocket Strikes Hit Preah Vihear Temple, Civilian Areas

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 16, 2025) — Cambodian authorities accused Thai forces Tuesday of launching rocket and drone attacks on the UNESCO World Heritage site of Preah Vihear temple and other locations along the border, in what officials called fresh violations of a ceasefire agreement.

Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, said shelling began shortly after midnight in Military Region Four. Between 1:37 p.m. and 3 p.m., Thai forces allegedly fired DTI‑2 rockets at Preah Vihear temple. Drone strikes reportedly targeted Phnom Kmoach and the Anses checkpoint, with toxic substances deployed.

In the 333 area, Thai troops backed by tanks and infantry attempted to advance into Chub Angkunh, Ta Krabei Temple and Tmar Chaet. In Military Region Five, covering Banteay Meanchey and Pursat provinces, Thai forces shelled Chouk Chey village late Monday and carried out drone strikes over O’Plok Damrei the following afternoon. Additional shelling was reported at Ta Krabei Temple, Chob Angkounh village, Thma Don and Phnom Kmoach.

Socheata rejected Thai claims that Cambodian forces had targeted civilians, saying Cambodian operations were directed solely at military positions. She accused Thai attacks of striking civilian areas and cultural sites.

“Peace can only be achieved through concrete actions, not words,” Socheata said, urging Thailand to halt military operations, stop spreading misinformation and refrain from targeting civilians, infrastructure and heritage sites.

Cambodia reaffirmed its adherence to the Oct. 26 ceasefire and joint peace declaration signed by the two prime ministers, witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Officials said Cambodian forces remain committed to defending the country’s territorial integrity.