“Cambodian forces fired heavy weapons, including howitzers and BM-21 multiple rocket launchers. The Thai military responded with appropriate supporting fire," Thailand’s Ministry of Defense reported today.

According to the Thai military, the fighting began at dawn in Ubon Ratchathani and Surin provinces.

The Cambodian military later confirmed the continued exchange of heavy artillery fire in the disputed areas within both Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces. Cambodian media reported that their military maintained "control of the situation on all battlefields" and repelled Thai soldiers from Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Krabey Temple, and the Mom Tei area.

Cambodian soldiers next to an anti-aircraft gun on a truck in Oddar Meanchey province, 25/7. Photo: *AFP*

A Cambodian local official reported at least one civilian death and 5 injuries during the clashes. Around 1,500 families in Banteay Ampil district, Oddar Meanchey province, near the conflict zone, have been evacuated.

The clashes between Cambodia and Thailand erupted near Ta Moan Thom Temple on the morning of 24/7 and subsequently spread to other areas along the border.

The fighting escalated with the deployment of heavy weaponry by both Cambodian and Thai forces. Thailand accused Cambodia of shelling residential areas, resulting in 15 fatalities. Bangkok deployed F-16 fighter jets to strike military targets across the border in retaliation.

Over 100,000 people in 4 Thai border provinces have been evacuated to safety.

Location of Ta Muan Thom Temple and other disputed temples between Cambodia and Thailand. Graphic: *CNA*

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated on 24/7 that it is crucial for both sides to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from using force, prevent escalation, and resolve disagreements peacefully and appropriately, based on the fundamental principles of international law.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim posted on Facebook on the night of 24/7 that he had spoken with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai in his capacity as the 2025 ASEAN Chair. According to him, both Cambodia and Thailand are open to considering a ceasefire.

Several countries and international organizations, including China, Malaysia, the US, and the European Union (EU), have expressed concerns and called for de-escalation and an end to the conflict.

Huyen Le (*Reuters, Khmer Times*)