Cambodia's CMAC Reports Extensive Damage to Preah Vihear Temple, Seeks International Accountability

Cambodia's Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has released a report detailing severe destruction at the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On September 10th, CMAC Director-General Heng Ratana expressed gratitude via social media for the assessment reports on the temple's destruction and damage issued by UNESCO and ICOMOS. According to CMAC's investigation, the Thai military conducted a total of 501 bombing and shooting attacks on and around Preah Vihear Temple. These attacks have been identified as causing damage to over 560 locations within the temple complex itself. Heng Ratana further stated that these attacks were not merely accidental but were part of a strategic plan, involving clear strategy, tactics, coordination, and command, with the explicit objective of destroying Preah Vihear Temple, an invaluable heritage of Cambodia's ancestors and a precious world heritage site. The Director-General expressed strong confidence that true justice will be served for Preah Vihear Temple, and those responsible for the destruction will be punished under international law. He also remarked that the curse of Cambodian ancestors, who built this temple as a legacy for humanity, will befall the perpetrators. This report strengthens Cambodia's long-standing call for international accountability for the destruction of Preah Vihear Temple. It re-emphasizes the need for international cooperation in preserving the temple as a world heritage site and ensuring its peaceful use for future generations. Source: CEN Cambodia