July 24, 2025 – Intense fighting has broken out for the second consecutive day along the volatile Thailand-Cambodia border, with clashes reported at multiple conflict points including Ta Mone Thom Temple, Ta Krabey Temple, the Mom Bei area, and near the historically disputed Preah Vihear Temple.
Cambodian authorities accuse the Thai military of initiating the fresh round of hostilities. Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that the Thai army launched aggressive attacks on Cambodian military positions in Oddar Meanchey province, extending their assault to adjacent areas. The offensive is reportedly linked to the Thai army’s declaration of the “Chakraphong Phuvanaat military strategy”, a doctrine previously used during the 2008–2011 border conflict.
“Cambodia has always adhered to resolving issues peacefully,” said Prime Minister Hun Manet in a social media post, “but in this case, we have no choice but to respond with force against this armed invasion.”
Cambodia’s Royal Government, supported by various ministries, provincial leaders, and military forces, is actively engaged in defending national sovereignty while providing aid to civilians affected by the escalation.
Senate President Hun Sen confirmed that the Thai attack followed their July 23 order to shut down the Ta Mone Thom Temple, after which military operations commenced. He urged Cambodian citizens not to panic, stockpile food, or exploit the situation for financial gain.
“The Cambodian military has no choice but to resist and counterattack,” said Hun Sen. “I urge fellow Cambodians to remain calm and continue with their normal activities, except in the affected border regions.”
In Thailand, media outlet Thai PBS World confirmed that the military had indeed initiated the “Chakraphong Phuvanaat strategy” in response to recent landmine explosions, including one in the Chong An Ma pass that severely injured a Thai soldier. The military strategy was notably used during past conflicts over Preah Vihear Temple.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, veteran Cambodian journalist Soy Sopheap reported that Thailand deployed six F-16 fighter jets in the combat zone. He further claimed that one of the jets was allegedly shot down by Cambodian forces, although this has yet to be independently verified.
Both Cambodian leaders reiterated the importance of unity and public trust in the armed forces and government during this national crisis.
The border clashes mark a dangerous new chapter in the long-standing tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors, and the international community is watching closely as events unfold.
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