Cambodia Urges UN Security Council Action Over Thai Military Attacks

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 11, 2025) — Cambodia has formally appealed to the United Nations Security Council to intervene after what it describes as unprovoked military aggression by Thai forces, warning the assaults violate international law and threaten regional peace.

In a letter dated Dec. 10, Cambodia detailed attacks beginning Dec. 7, when Thai forces allegedly opened fire on Cambodian positions with heavy weapons, followed by mortar strikes later that evening.

On Dec. 8, officials said the assault escalated to include mortars, tanks, artillery, drones, warplanes and toxic smoke across border areas in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces.

Cambodia accused Thailand of extending strikes into civilian areas in Banteay Meanchey province, destroying homes, infrastructure and causing casualties in violation of humanitarian law and the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord signed in October.

Despite the reported attacks, Cambodian officials said they refrained from retaliation for 24 hours to uphold the ceasefire, but stressed they reserve the right to self defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

The letter also cited Thailand’s alleged suspension of past agreements, including the July 28, 2025 ceasefire and the 2000 border demarcation memorandum, accusing Bangkok of using maps that contradict decades of bilateral treaties and international rulings.

Cambodia urged the Security Council to condemn Thailand’s actions, demand an immediate halt to hostilities, enforce respect for humanitarian law, and dispatch an independent UN fact finding mission to investigate civilian harm.

A government spokesperson said the country faces a “precarious and dangerous situation” and warned continued aggression undermines regional stability and the authority of the UN Charter. Officials concluded that swift Security Council action is essential to prevent further escalation and safeguard peace.