Thai Forces Escalate Attacks on Cambodian Civilians, Temples

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 9, 2025) — Cambodian defense officials accused Thai forces Tuesday of intensifying indiscriminate assaults on civilians and cultural sites, expanding the battlefield despite a ceasefire agreement.

Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, said the attacks targeted schools, villages and sacred sites, including Ta Krabey Temple.

“Thai military attacks on Cambodia are conducted without direction, targeting civilians, particularly schools, villages, and sacred sites,” Socheata said. “These brutal acts demonstrate a blatant disregard for Cambodian culture and the spirit of the Cambodian people.”

According to the ministry, assaults continued from 3 a.m. Tuesday across multiple locations, including Phnom Khmoch, Ta Thav, Tamone Temple, Preah Vihear Temple, Khna Temple, Veal Intry, Koul 8, Bos Sbov, Choam Te, An Ses, Thmar Don, O’Smach, Phnom Anusavory and near Keosekhakirosvara Pagoda. Weapons used included tanks, heavy artillery, drones, F-16 fighter jets and toxic gas.

In Military Region 5, Thai forces shelled the O’Phlok Domrei area with 105mm artillery, supported by drones and infantry. Fighter jets also struck Boeung Trakuon, Chok Chey and Prey Chan villages, with attacks spreading into Pursat province.

Provincial authorities reported at least seven civilian deaths and 20 serious injuries between Dec. 8 and Dec. 9.

The ministry said Cambodian forces continue to exercise restraint in line with government directives to resolve the conflict peacefully under international law, while remaining prepared to defend sovereignty and protect citizens.

Cambodia urged Thailand to honor the ceasefire and the Joint Declaration signed Oct. 26, 2025, witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, then ASEAN chair.