Ministry of National Defence Confirms Incident Near Preah Vihear; Cambodia Stands Down to Seek Peaceful Resolution
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – The Ministry of National Defence (MND) today released an urgent statement detailing a serious cross-border security incident along the Cambodia-Thailand border.
Her Excellency Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Under Secretary of State and Spokeswoman for the Ministry of National Defence, confirmed the situation, emphasizing Cambodia’s commitment to de-escalation.
I. Timeline of the Cross-Border Attack
Thai Military Forces Open Fire
At approximately 02:15 PM (local time) today, Thai military forces initiated an attack against Cambodian border positions. The incident occurred in the Prorlean Thmar area of Choam Kshant District, Preah Vihear Province.
- Weapons Used: The Ministry confirmed that the Thai forces employed various weapons, including handguns, machine guns (B40), and 60mm mortars.
Cambodian forces immediately contacted the Thai side, urging them to cease the firing instantly. The Thai military forces subsequently stopped firing at 02:32 PM.
II. Cambodia’s Response: Non-Retaliation and Diplomatic Action
Maintaining Ceasefire and Vigilance
The Ministry of National Defence stressed that Cambodian forces did not retaliate at all during the incident, upholding the established ceasefire protocols. Cambodian troops are currently maintaining maximum caution and vigilance while closely monitoring the sensitive border situation.
To ensure transparency and accountability, Cambodia has launched immediate diplomatic and legal steps:
- ASEAN Notification: Cambodia has already informed the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) about the incident.
- Request for Investigation: The Cambodian government plans to formally request the AOT to conduct a full and transparent investigation into the matter.
III. Reaffirming Commitment to International Law
Peaceful Resolution is the Only Path
On this occasion, Cambodia firmly reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to peaceful resolution and existing international agreements, stressing the importance of border security protocols.
“Cambodia reaffirms its firm commitment to respecting and implementing all conditions of the ceasefire and the Joint Declaration between Cambodia and Thailand, with goodwill and the highest sense of responsibility,” stated Lt. Gen. Socheata.
Cambodia stressed that it firmly adheres to resolving all disputes through peaceful means—in accordance with international law, existing treaties, conventions, and agreements. The nation reiterates its stance against resorting to acts of aggression or the use of force, seeking instead a solution that is just, fair, and long-lasting under international law.
The public and media are advised to stay informed through official government statements from the Ministry of National Defence.