Samdech Hun Sen Calls for National Unity as Cambodia–Thailand Border Fighting Escalates

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 10, 2025) — Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen issued a forceful appeal for national solidarity Wednesday as clashes with Thai forces intensified along the disputed frontier, urging Cambodians to “stand firmly” behind the military and displaced civilians.

Samdech Techo praised troops “holding the line to defend Cambodia’s territory,” describing their actions as courageous against what he called “invading forces.”

He voiced concern for civilians forced to flee, calling their situation “deeply distressing.”

He thanked individuals and organizations that have donated supplies, noting contributions had reached soldiers and displaced families through official channels and direct delivery to front line areas.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen highlighted a request from a soldier for “Ambok”, the traditional flattened rice eaten during harvest season, rather than instant noodles.

He said the appeal underscored the need for more appropriate food supplies and urged donors to provide both items.

With the rice harvest under way, Samdech Techo Hun Sen called on supporters to purchase rice for Ambok production or buy directly from farmers and distribute it in one or two kilogram bags to troops and displaced residents.

He ended his message by urging soldiers to “eat the new harvest and continue the fight,” framing the appeal as both practical support and a symbolic call for resilience.