PHNOM PENH, December 19, 2025 — The Ministry of National Defence has issued an urgent update regarding the escalating border conflict. H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Spokeswoman for the Ministry, held a press briefing this morning to detail the continued Thai military aggression against Cambodia, which has now entered its 13th consecutive day.
The report highlights a dangerous shift in the conflict, with Thai forces reportedly moving beyond conventional weaponry to target civilian populations and cultural heritage sites.
Escalation of Thai Military Aggression Against Cambodia in Border Provinces
According to the latest briefing, hostilities remain active in the provinces of Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, and Pursat. While some sectors of the frontline have seen periods of calm, the Ministry confirmed that Thai forces are persisting in their offensive operations.
The most critical developments reported by the Spokeswoman include:
- Targeting Ancient Heritage: Between the evening of December 18 and 7:00 a.m. on December 19, Thai forces utilized heavy weaponry to strike an ancient Cambodian temple.
- Attacks on Civilians: Shelling has also been directed at civilian residential areas, causing significant concern for the safety of local communities.
- Reported Toxic Gas Attack: In a severe escalation of Thai military aggression against Cambodia, the Ministry confirmed that at 8:48 a.m. today, Thai forces sprayed toxic gas in the area of Chouk Chey village, O’Beichoan commune, in the O’Chrov district of Banteay Meanchey.
National Resolve and Territorial Protection
In the face of these attacks, the Ministry of National Defence maintains that Cambodian forces are acting with restraint and focusing on the protection of sovereignty. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata emphasized that the military remains “strong, brave, and steadfast” in its mission.
The Spokeswoman further underlined that Cambodia will not be intimidated by the use of force. “Our forces will defend the nation’s dignity with courage and unwavering resolve, at any cost,” she stated, reiterating that the military will continue to monitor the border situation closely to prevent further incursions.
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