Cambodia Marks Anniversary of Border Conflict, Cites Thai Aggression

Information Minister Neth Pheaktra has designated July 24 as a pivotal date in Cambodia's recent history, marking the start of what the Cambodian government describes as "armed aggression" by the Thai military against Cambodian territory, as the kingdom approaches the first anniversary of the 2025 Cambodia-Thailand border conflict. In a series of social media posts, Pheaktra recounted the events leading to the clashes, emphasizing the importance of preserving an accurate historical record for future generations. He stated that July 24, 2025, was a turning point when Thai forces attacked Cambodian positions near Ta Mone Thom Temple in Oddar Meanchey province, triggering fighting that later spread along the shared border. This escalation followed an incident on May 28, 2025, where Cambodian authorities allege Thai troops fatally shot a Cambodian soldier. "Cambodia did not seek war. However, Cambodia has the full and inherent right to defend its territory, its people and its sovereignty against any act of external aggression," Pheaktra wrote, stressing that the date should be remembered for the sacrifices of Cambodian armed forces, border police, and civilians. He argued that Thai military force, fighter jets, heavy bombs, and attempts to create "facts on the ground" could not alter internationally recognized borders or erase Cambodia's perception of the conflict's reality. Pheaktra presented physical evidence, including an unexploded MK-84 bomb dropped by the Royal Thai Air Force on a civilian home in Oddar Meanchey province and damage to the Ta Mone Senchey Pagoda, a Buddhist place of worship, by an MK-82 bomb. He characterized these as evidence of aggression, violations of sovereignty, and disregard for civilian safety and international law. Nearly a year after the fighting, Cambodian authorities claim Thai forces continue to occupy positions in areas they consider Cambodian territory in Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, and Pursat provinces. Phnom Penh has lodged diplomatic protests, asserting that these activities, including the construction of military fortifications and land clearing, violate Cambodia's sovereignty and the December 2025 ceasefire agreement. Despite ongoing tensions, Cambodia maintains its commitment to resolving border disputes peacefully through bilateral mechanisms and international law. The country is also pursuing compulsory conciliation proceedings under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) concerning maritime issues. "Cambodia remembers. The Cambodian people remember. And history will record every act of aggression, every bomb dropped and every destruction inflicted upon Cambodian territory," Pheaktra concluded.