Cambodia Accuses Thai Forces of Fresh Border Attacks Ahead of ASEAN Meeting

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 22, 2025) — Cambodia’s Defense Ministry accused Thai forces of launching fresh attacks on civilian areas and a temple site along the border, including the use of fighter jets, ahead of a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting in Malaysia.

In a statement Monday, the ministry said the incidents occurred across Cambodia’s 4th and 5th Military Regions, covering parts of Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey and Pursat provinces.

Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata told reporters the alleged attacks took place between the evening of Dec. 21 and the morning of Dec. 22.

According to the ministry, Thai forces in the 4th Military Region carried out sustained shelling from 5 p.m. Sunday until 8 a.m. Monday, targeting areas near Ta Moun Thom temple and Jom Te. Cambodia said tanks and infantry attempted to advance toward the temple in the early hours of Dec. 22.

In the 5th Military Region, officials reported shelling in Poipet city and nearby villages, including Prey Chan and Chouk Chey. The ministry also alleged that an F-16 fighter jet dropped a bomb on the Beoung Trokoun area shortly after 5 a.m. Monday.

Socheata said Cambodian forces were defending their positions and denied targeting civilians, insisting the military’s actions were limited to self-defense.

The government called on the international community to condemn what it described as violations of international law by Thailand, demanding an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Thai troops from disputed areas.

Cambodian armed forces and national police remain on high alert to protect civilians and safeguard territorial integrity, the ministry said, stressing that Cambodia is acting in accordance with international law.

Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful settlement but said its forces would remain vigilant.