Thai forces began launching attacks at seven locations on Cambodian soil at around 3am this morning, July 25, and are deploying cluster munitions, according to Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Maly Socheata.
She told a press conference this morning that Thai F-16s were striking several sites, and noted that the use of cluster munitions had also been observed.
“This indiscriminate and aggressive invasion is a serious violation of international law, including conventions on cluster munitions. The use of such weapons is not only an act of cruelty and inhumanity by Thailand but also clearly shows their complete disregard for international humanitarian law and fundamental norms that govern such conduct,” she said.
“The deployment of cluster bombs poses a long-term threat to civilians and the environment. It constitutes a war crime under international law and undermines peace and security in the region,” she added.
Socheata provided details of the second day of Thai aggression, noting that the attacks began at 3.20am, targeting Phnom Khmoach, Ta Thav and Area 333. Cluster munitions were used at Phnom Khmoach. By 5.30am, they began striking the Ta Mone and Ta Krabey temples. Later, at 5.40am, another attack was launched at Mom Bei.
“At 6.50am, Thailand launched a second cluster bomb attack on Techo Thammacheat village, in Preah Vihear province’s Choam Ksan district. At 7.03, they fired on the Choam Te area, and at 8.00am they attempted to seize the Ta Krabey Temple once again,” she said.
“However, our forces resisted bravely and remain fully committed to defending Cambodian sovereignty, and not allowing any further encroachment,” she added.
The defence ministry categorically denied Thai media claims that Thai troops had taken control of Keo Sikha Kiri Svarak Pagoda and Preah Vihear Temple.
“The ministry completely rejects these claims. The Preah Vihear Temple and Keo Sikha Kiri Svarak Pagoda remain fully under Cambodian control within our sovereign territory. These Thai media reports are fabrications and distortions of the truth,” said Socheata.
“The attack on Cambodia is unacceptable. The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and all defensive units remain determined to protect Cambodia’s sovereignty and defend our peaceful citizens at all costs,” she added.
