Cambodia Marks One Year Since Thai Border Clashes, Recalling Past Trauma and Pledging Peace

Cambodia is marking the first anniversary of the Thai military's border incursion on July 24, 2025, a day that remains indelibly etched in the minds of its people. The incident began with an attack on Cambodian border defense forces near the Ta Moan Thom temple, escalating into a broader offensive along the border areas. According to Cambodia's Ministry of National Defense, Thai forces initiated activities violating agreed-upon accords by entering the vicinity of Ta Moan Thom temple and subsequently deployed drones in the conflict zone. By 8:46 AM, Thai forces reportedly initiated firing on Cambodian troops in the Ta Moan Thom temple area, extending their attacks to Ta Krabey temple, Phnom Khmoai, and the triple-junction area. Crucially, at 10:40 AM, the Thai military allegedly used F-16 fighter jets to drop two bombs on Wat Keo Sak Kiri Svarak, a location where Cambodian forces were stationed to defend their territorial integrity in Udor Mean Chey and Preah Vihear provinces. Following the initial attack, Cambodian armed forces stated they had no choice but to exercise their right to self-defense within their sovereign territory against the Thai military's invasion. The events of July 24th became a focal point of months-long border tensions, causing extensive damage to infrastructure, schools, pagodas, and civilian homes, forcing tens of thousands to flee. As of July 24, 2026, over 20,000 displaced Cambodian citizens reportedly remain unable to return to their homes due to obstruction by the Thai military. One year later, the commemoration is not intended to fuel animosity or incite conflict but to remember history, honor the souls of those who lost their lives defending the homeland, and reflect on the value of peace, a principle Cambodia consistently upholds through negotiation and international law. July 24, 2025, will continue to be recorded in Cambodian history as a day when the Khmer people united to protect their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence in the face of external aggression.