Overview
The Ministry of National Defence of Cambodia confirms that on 21 December 2025, Thai military forces continued their armed aggression against Cambodia, entering the 15th consecutive day of hostilities. These actions represent ongoing violations of the ceasefire and the Joint Declaration signed by the Prime Ministers of Cambodia and Thailand on 26 October 2025.
Thai forces employed heavy artillery, tanks, mortars, fighter jets, drones, and toxic gas, deliberately targeting civilian communities, religious and cultural heritage sites, schools, and civilian infrastructure, constituting serious violations of international humanitarian law.
4th Military Region – Frontline Situation
(Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear Provinces | 05:00 PM, 20 Dec – 10:00 AM, 21 Dec 2025)
20 December 2025
- 05:30 PM: Thai forces fired heavy and supporting artillery into the area of Thmar Daun
21 December 2025
- 12:05 AM: Thai forces fired three mortar rounds into Tamone Temple
- 06:15 AM: Heavy artillery and tank-mounted fire targeted Thmar Daun and Tamone Temple
- 06:25 AM: Heavy and supporting artillery, supported by drones, struck Tamone Temple
- 09:31 AM: Toxic gas deployed into the area of Preah Vihear Temple
The situation in other areas remained calm; Cambodian forces continued close monitoring with high vigilance.
5th Military Region – Frontline Situation
(Banteay Meanchey Province | 12:00 AM – 05:00 PM, 21 Dec 2025)
Morning Attacks
- 05:50 AM: Artillery shelling targeted Boeung Trakoun
- 06:09 AM: Reconnaissance drones violated Cambodian airspace over Prey Chan Village
- 07:09 AM: Shelling targeted Prey Chan Village
- 09:27 AM: Continued shelling targeted Prey Chan Village
Escalation Against Civilian Areas
- 01:01 PM: Fighter jets dropped two bombs into Phkoam (Pkam) Commune, Svay Chek District
- 01:35 PM: Nine artillery shells struck civilian areas in Nimit Commune, O’ Chrov District
- 02:35 PM – 02:57 PM: Eleven artillery shells targeted Poipet District, Poipet Municipality
- 02:10 PM: Drone bombardment near Chey Chomneas Border Checkpoint
- 03:42 PM: Reconnaissance drones violated airspace behind Chok Chey Village
- 04:00 PM: Reconnaissance drones violated airspace behind Boeung Trakoun
- 04:11 PM: Continued shelling targeted Boeung Trakoun
Civilian Impact and Casualties
Cambodia reiterates that its right to self-defence is exercised solely against military targets. Conversely, Thai forces deliberately attacked civilian locations.
As of 6:00 PM on 20 December 2025:
- 19 civilians killed, including 1 infant
- 79 civilians injured
Legal Assessment and Official Position
Thailand’s actions—including the use of fighter jets, heavy artillery, drones, and toxic gas—constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law, the United Nations Charter, and the ASEAN Charter.
Cambodia demands:
- Immediate cessation of hostilities
- Full reimplementation of the Joint Declaration
- Accountability for violations and war crimes
Conclusion
The events of 21 December 2025 confirm continued Thai armed aggression on the 15th consecutive day. Cambodian Armed Forces and National Police remain steadfast in defending Cambodia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and civilian population.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.