Cambodia Denies Reports of Rocket Deployment, Accuses Thailand of Spreading Misinformation

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 12, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense on Friday rejected Thai media reports claiming it was preparing to deploy PHL 03 rocket systems amid escalating border tensions, calling the allegations “false and fabricated.”

Thai outlet Thairath reported Cambodia was readying the rockets for combat, but ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said the claims were intended to damage Cambodia’s reputation and distract from what Phnom Penh describes as Thai incursions into its territory.

She also dismissed allegations that Cambodia had hired foreign mercenaries to operate drones along the frontier.

Socheata demanded the Thai army cease aggressive actions, stop spreading misinformation, and end indiscriminate attacks on civilians, infrastructure and historic sites, including temples recognized as UNESCO World Heritage.

“Peace cannot come only through words, but through concrete actions,” she said.

The ministry reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the July ceasefire and the Oct. 26 Joint Declaration signed in Kuala Lumpur in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, then ASEAN chair.

Officials said Cambodia remains dedicated to resolving disputes peacefully under international law and urged Thailand to honor its obligations.