Researcher Criticises Thai Assessment of Damage to Disputed Border Temples

PHNOM PENH, Jan 23, 2026 (KPT) – An independent researcher in Cambodia has criticised Thailand’s handling of damage to ancient temples along the disputed border following recent clashes.

Andy Brouwer, a longtime expatriate and researcher, said Thai authorities had announced plans to assess and renovate damage at Prasat Ta Krabey, a 12th-century sandstone temple, despite what he described as Thailand’s responsibility for destruction caused during the fighting.

He accused Thai forces of damaging the temple with artillery fire and questioned Thailand’s presumption in proceeding with reconstruction plans.

Brouwer noted that Thai authorities had taken media to Prasat Ta Krabey and Prasat Ta Moan, both under Thai control, while excluding Prasat Preah Vihear, which remains under Cambodian control and has suffered extensive damage from bombardment.

Cambodian officials said they are awaiting a Unesco delegation to assess damage at the Preah Vihear temple complex, a World Heritage Site.

Earlier this week, Cambodia lodged a formal protest against Thailand over what it called acts of aggression at Ta Krabey Temple.

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts said the site had suffered near-total destruction from shelling and warned that any occupation or alteration constituted a serious breach of international law.

Cambodia demanded Thailand halt all activities in and around the temple, which it insists lies within Cambodian sovereign territory.