Phnom Penh, July 25, 2025 — For the third time today, Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, delivered an urgent briefing on the escalating conflict with Thailand. Broadcasting live in an update this afternoon, her report detailed the continued violence threatening regional stability.

Since dawn, the Thai military has launched a relentless series of attacks across multiple locations. She emphasized that hostilities began as early as 3:20 a.m. and have involved artillery, tanks, fighter jets, drones, and the deployment of cluster bombs—raising grave concerns for civilian safety and property.

The targeted sites include Phnom Trob, Tathav, Phnom Khmouch, O Phka Sne (An Ses), Mom 3, Ta Moan, and Ta Krabey. Notably, Thai F-16 fighter jets crossed into Cambodian airspace at 12:30 p.m., dropping bombs near the Preah Vihear Temple (Wat Kiriswar). Subsequent strikes occurred at 12:40 p.m., with additional bombs falling in the Takrabei Temple area shortly after.

The attacks have caused extensive damage to local villages, including Samrong City in Oddar Meanchey province. Civilians were compelled to evacuate amid reports of destruction and injuries, especially among children and the elderly. The gas station in Samrong was nearly destroyed during the barrage, further worsening the hardships faced by residents.

Adding to the grave concerns, shells struck the courtyard of Monorom 1+2 Primary School in Banteay Ampil District, endangering children and staff. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports confirmed the incident, which underscores the seriousness of the ongoing violence.

A focal point of the briefing was the use of cluster munitions—an act that Cambodia vehemently condemns. At 5:25 a.m., the Thai military deployed these large-scale, indiscriminate weapons, which the government described as a “grave violation” of the Convention on Cluster Munitions and international law. Officials emphasized that such weapons pose a lasting threat to civilians and the environment and labeled their use a war crime.

The Cambodian government strongly condemned Thailand’s “reckless and unlawful aggressive actions,” asserting that these attacks undermine regional peace and violate Cambodia’s sovereignty. Officials reaffirmed their lawful right to self-defense under the UN Charter. They stressed that Cambodia has responded with professionalism and restraint, aiming only at military targets, while ensuring civilian safety.

Cambodia’s leadership made it clear that they are the primary victims of recent ceasefire violations. The government, army, and people stand united in their unwavering resolve to defend territorial integrity and sovereignty at any cost.

As the briefing concluded, it served as a stark reminder: Cambodia remains committed to peace but is prepared to defend its land against any aggression, upholding international law and seeking continued international support.