Cambodia condemns Thai attacks on civilian areas near border

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 24, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence condemned Thai forces on Wednesday for what it described as sustained attacks on civilian areas and cultural sites near the two countries’ disputed border.

The ministry said the assaults began late Dec. 23 and continued into the morning of Dec. 24, striking multiple provinces and locations, including areas close to the Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, ministry spokesperson, said Thai forces shelled areas near Preah Vihear shortly after midnight. She reported further firing between 7 and 8 a.m. involving heavy weapons and drones, affecting the temple grounds and nearby communities such as Chan Krohom.

The ministry also cited incidents in Pursat and Battambang provinces, part of Cambodia’s 5th Military Region, with shelling continuing overnight. Officials alleged Thai infantry units, supported by tanks, attempted to advance into Chouk Chey village twice on Wednesday morning.

Cambodian authorities accused Thailand of spreading misinformation and urged it to act with “professionalism and dignity.”

The government called on the international community to condemn what it described as violations of international law, demanding an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of Thai forces while pledging commitment to a peaceful resolution.

China voiced concern over renewed clashes along the Cambodia–Thailand border, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun calling for dialogue and restraint.

Guo wrote on his social media page that MFA Special Envoy for Asian Affairs Deng Xijun had conducted shuttle diplomacy between Phnom Penh and Bangkok from Dec. 18 to 23 to mediate the conflict.

“China supports ASEAN’s mediation efforts and the important role of its observer team in ceasefire monitoring,” Guo said. “China is willing to create conditions and provide a platform for dialogue and negotiations between the two parties.

It is hoped that Cambodia and Thailand will meet each other halfway, strive to restore mutual trust, and rebuild border peace.”