Armed Attack at Tham Airfield Area (7 December 2025)

On 7 December 2025, Thai military forces launched a series of armed attacks against Cambodian troops stationed near Tham Airfield, Choam Ksan District, Preah Vihear Province, within Cambodian sovereign territory.

First Attack Phase (2:15 PM – 2:32 PM)

From 2:15 PM to 2:32 PM, Thai forces launched an attack in the Prorlean Thmar area, using small arms fire.

During this initial phase:

  • Cambodian troops did not retaliate
  • Cambodian forces exercised maximum restraint
  • No counter-fire was initiated despite the provocation

Thai Accusations and Cambodia’s Response

Following the initial attack, Thai authorities issued baseless accusations against Cambodia.

The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence:

  • Firmly rejected all allegations
  • Reaffirmed that Cambodian forces acted strictly in defensive posture
  • Emphasized Cambodia’s commitment to restraint and peace

Second and Third Attack Phases (Evening of 7 December 2025)

At 8:02 PM, Thai forces launched a second attack using small arms at O’ Phka Sneh.

At 8:30 PM, Thai forces continued firing at Prorlean Thmar, escalating the attack with:

  • Small arms
  • Mortar fire

By 8:50 PM, Thai firing ceased, concluding the series of attacks for the day.

Cambodia’s Official Position

The Royal Government of Cambodia:

  • Strongly condemns the repeated Thai attacks against Cambodian troops
  • Reaffirms that all incidents occurred within Cambodian sovereign territory
  • Notes Cambodia’s continued non-retaliation and restraint
  • Rejects all unfounded accusations issued by the Thai side
  • Calls for respect of bilateral understandings and international law

Conclusion

The events of 7 December 2025 demonstrate a renewed pattern of Thai military provocations against Cambodian forces in Preah Vihear Province. Despite multiple attacks involving small arms and mortars, Cambodian troops maintained restraint and did not retaliate. Thailand’s subsequent baseless accusations further undermined trust and stability, while Cambodia continued to uphold a disciplined and defensive posture in accordance with international norms.