Cambodia Requests UNESCO Report on Shelling Damage at Preah Vihear Temple

Phnom Penh Governor H.E. Khuong Sreng has requested that UNESCO's representative to Cambodia formally submit a report to the global body detailing severe damage inflicted on the historic Preah Vihear Temple by Thai military strikes in July 2025. The request was made during a courtesy call on Aug. 4 at Phnom Penh Municipal Hall with Mr. Flavio Bonetti, the representative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to Cambodia. Governor Khuong Sreng highlighted that cross-border hostilities resulting from Thai military incursions caused widespread devastation to border sanctuaries – including Ta Krabey, Tamone, and particularly the World Heritage Site of Preah Vihear. The bombardment damaged civilian homes, local infrastructure, and ancient cultural sites. "Preah Vihear Temple is not only a national heritage for Cambodia but a collective treasure for all humanity," the Governor said, urging UNESCO to document the destruction accurately, noting that Cambodian citizens directly witnessed the destruction on July 25, 2025. In response, Mr. Bonetti stated that UNESCO officials visited Preah Vihear in March to assess damage to the temple's structure and formulate restoration plans to mobilise international aid. He added that UNESCO remains dedicated to its mission under international law, focusing on heritage conservation while addressing urgent humanitarian needs – such as supporting health, living conditions, and the safe return of displaced citizens. This incident underscores the reality of border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand impacting invaluable cultural heritage. The Preah Vihear Temple has a history of military confrontations, stemming from long-standing territorial disputes between the two nations.