BREAKING: Cambodia Accuses Thai Military of Overnight Attacks, Two Civilians Killed Near Border

Phnom Penh — December 9, 2025
Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense on Monday issued an urgent statement accusing the Thai military of launching continuous overnight attacks along the Cambodia–Thailand border, resulting in the deaths of two Cambodian civilians in Banteay Meanchey province.

According to officials from Military Region 5, the shelling began shortly before 1 a.m., at 12:59 a.m., and continued for several hours into the early morning. The ministry said the attacks appeared to intensify as the night progressed, with multiple rounds reportedly landing inside Cambodian territory.

Two Civilians Killed on National Road 56

The most tragic incident occurred when artillery fire struck two civilians traveling on National Road 56 in Thma Puok district. Officials confirmed that both victims died instantly as a result of the explosion.

Local authorities said the pair were residents of nearby villages and had been on their way to a morning market. Rescue teams arrived at the scene shortly after, but the victims were pronounced dead due to severe blast injuries.

Shelling Intensified Toward Dawn

Military personnel stationed near the border reported hearing repeated explosions from the direction of Thailand throughout the night. Cambodian units operating in the area said they observed increased movement from Thai forces several hours earlier, though they maintained that no Cambodian troops engaged in any activity that might be considered provocative.

Witnesses living in villages close to the border also reported being awakened by loud blasts and seeing flashes in the distance. Several homes sustained minor damage, but no additional injuries were reported.

Ministry of Defense: “Cambodia Remains Committed to Peaceful Solutions”

In its statement, the Cambodian Ministry of Defense emphasized that the country remains committed to diplomacy despite the escalation.

“The Ministry of National Defense and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces strictly adhere to the decisions of the Royal Government in resolving disputes through peaceful means and in accordance with international law,” the statement said.
“However, we are fully prepared to protect our sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of the Cambodian people. No country will be allowed to violate our land illegally under any circumstances.”

The ministry described the incident as a serious breach of security and warned that repeated violations would not be tolerated.

A Potential Flashpoint in Regional Relations

Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have occasionally flared over disputed border areas, particularly in regions where boundary lines remain unclarified.
Analysts say the reported death of civilians marks one of the most serious incidents of the year and could further strain relations if not addressed promptly at the diplomatic level.

Regional security observers noted that the situation could escalate if either side responds militarily, stressing the importance of immediate communication between both governments.

Evacuations and Heightened Security in Banteay Meanchey

Authorities in Thma Puok district have moved several families away from high-risk zones as a precaution. Some schools near the border have temporarily suspended classes, and residents have been urged to avoid travel during nighttime hours until security conditions improve.

The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) remain on alert but insist they have not taken offensive measures and will only act defensively if the situation deteriorates.

No Official Response Yet From Thailand

As of publication time, the Thai government has not issued a statement addressing Cambodia’s accusations. Thai media have also not reported any military operations in the area adjacent to Banteay Meanchey.

Diplomats in Phnom Penh and Bangkok expect emergency talks may be necessary if tensions continue to rise.

Conclusion

The overnight shelling allegedly carried out by the Thai military has left two Cambodian civilians dead and reignited long-standing border tensions between the two neighbors. Cambodia has reiterated its preference for peaceful resolution but warns that it stands ready to defend its sovereignty if provoked further.

The situation remains fluid, and authorities urge residents near the border to stay alert as investigations and diplomatic efforts are underway.