Senate President Urges Restraint, Warns Thailand Not to Cross Cambodia’s Red Line

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 8, 2025) — Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen on Monday called for maximum restraint from front-line forces amid escalating border tensions with Thailand, but warned that Thai troops must not cross Cambodia’s red line.

Speaking in Phnom Penh, Samdech Techo Hun Sen said Thai forces had used “all kinds of weapons” against Cambodian positions since Sunday afternoon and into Monday morning, apparently aiming to provoke a response that could undermine the ceasefire agreement and the Cambodia–Thailand peace statement.

“The red line that must not be crossed has already been determined,” Samdech Techo Hun Sen said. “Commanders at all levels should ensure that all military officers and soldiers are fully aware of it.”

He urged authorities to assist civilians fleeing dangerous areas and said other work programs and meetings had been canceled so officials could focus on coordinating the armed forces’ response.

Cambodian athletes competing in the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand were instructed to continue their events.

Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said Thai troops fired on Cambodian forces between Dec. 7 and 8, reportedly using tank rounds near Preah Vihear temple. Cambodia did not return fire, citing its commitment to bilateral agreements and international law.

The ministry condemned what it called “inhumane and brutal acts” and said the attacks violated a Joint Declaration signed Oct. 26 by both prime ministers, witnessed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, then ASEAN chair.

Cambodia urged the international community to condemn Thailand’s “violations” and called on Bangkok to halt actions that threaten peace and stability.