Cambodia Reports Civilian Deaths in Thai Air Attacks

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec.20,2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence accused Thai military forces of carrying out fresh attacks along the Cambodia-Thailand border despite a ceasefire agreement signed in October, alleging Thai air strikes on civilian areas deep inside Cambodian territory.

The ministry said fighting flared across several border regions on Dec. 19 and 20, marking the 14th day of renewed tensions involving Cambodia’s 3rd, 4th and 5th Military Regions.

Officials alleged Thailand has repeatedly violated the ceasefire and the Joint Declaration signed by both prime ministers on Oct. 26.

In the 3rd Military Region, Cambodian authorities said Thai naval forces fired about 20 artillery shells from a warship between 6:30 p.m. and 6:55 p.m. on Dec. 19.

The shells reportedly landed in the sea near a hotel close to the Cham Yeam border checkpoint in Mondul Seima district. Officials said the situation later calmed.

In the 4th Military Region, Cambodia claimed Thai forces used heavy artillery, tanks and infantry to advance into areas near Phnom Kmoch and Bos Sbov–Choam Te on the evening of Dec. 19.

Later that night, the Thai air force allegedly deployed F-16 fighter jets, dropping two bombs on O’jik Bridge and nearby civilian infrastructure between Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces.

Early on Dec. 20, Cambodian officials reported further shelling near the Preah Vihear temple and in the Thmar Daun area. Some areas were later described as calm, though monitoring continues.

In the 5th Military Region, Cambodia said Thai forces fired flares and artillery shells into several villages on Dec. 19. Additional shelling, including tank-mounted gunfire, was reported in the early hours of Dec. 20 in areas including Boeung Trakoun and O’Phlok Damrei.

The ministry said at least 18 civilians, including one infant, had been killed and 79 injured as of Dec. 19, accusing Thai forces of targeting civilian areas. Thailand has not publicly responded to the claims.

Cambodia said its own military actions were limited to self-defense and directed only at military targets.

The government urged Thailand to halt what it described as misinformation and to comply fully with the ceasefire agreement. It also called on the international community to condemn alleged violations of international law and press for an immediate end to hostilities.

Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution in accordance with international law, while stating its armed forces remain on alert to defend the country’s territorial integrity.