Cambodia Describes Thai Attacks as ‘Brutal’ Amid Border Clashes

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 9, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence on Tuesday described recent Thai military operations along the border as “brutal,” citing expanded clashes and mounting civilian casualties.

Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, spokeswoman for the ministry, said the incidents occurred in the 5th and 4th Military Regions on Dec. 9. She accused Thai forces of violating the Oct. 26 cease‑fire and joint declaration, prompting Cambodian troops to respond in self‑defense under Article 51 of the U.N. Charter.

According to Socheata, Thai troops shelled Chok Chey and Prey Chan villages from 8:39 p.m. Dec. 8 until 8 a.m. Dec. 9. Drones were reportedly used for reconnaissance in Boeung Trakuon, with operations later expanding into Boeung Pring, Thmar Pouk and Komrieng districts in Battambang province.

The ministry said two civilians were killed while fleeing along National Road 56 in Banteay Meanchey province. Thai forces were also reported to have deployed bomber drones and sprayed toxic gas over Phnum Trangol between 4:58 and 5:25 a.m., followed by 105‑mm artillery fire at O’Phlok Domrei until 6:10 a.m. Attacks were said to continue as of 8 a.m.

In Phnom Khmoch, Cambodian authorities reported Thai assaults from 4:45 to 8 a.m. across multiple sites, including Ta Thav, Tamone Temple, Takrabey Temple, Preah Vihear Temple, Khna Temple, Veal Intry, Koul 8, Bos Sbov, Choam Te, An Ses, Thmar Don, O’Smach and Phnom Anusavory. Tanks, artillery, infantry units and toxic gas were allegedly used.

Preliminary provincial reports said seven civilians were killed and 20 seriously injured in what Phnom Penh described as Thai attacks targeting civilian areas.

The ministry reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful resolution but stressed its right to defend sovereignty, territorial integrity and civilians.

It called on Thailand to honor the cease‑fire and joint declaration witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.