Phnom penh: Cambodian Ministry of National Defence has reported renewed Thai military attacks along the border throughout the morning of Dec. 8, and reaffirmed Cambodian forces' restraint and continued compliance with the ceasefire agreement and the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Declaration on Peace Deal.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, at a press briefing this morning, H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Under Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, stated that starting at approximately 05:04 a.m., Thai forces launched a series of assaults targeting Cambodian troops in various locations, including An Ses, Tamone Thom Temple, Preah Vihear Temple area, 5 Makara, Chamkar Chek, Mom Bei, Phnom Khmoach, Kaul 8, Ta Krabei Temple, and Khnar Temple. This followed an earlier attack on Cambodian forces at 2:15 p.m. on Dec. 7.
The Ministry provided a detailed timeline of Thai military actions, noting the transport of troops and multiple instances of rifle and mortar fire, as well as the use of tanks and artillery in targeted areas. The aggressive actions included the firing of chemical smoke and airstrikes conducted by Thai F-16 fighter jets.
As of 11:00 a.m., Thai forces continued to fire into positions held by Cambodian forces and civilian areas within Cambodia. The spokesperson emphasized the expansion of Thai military actions into civilian zones in Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces, resulting in civilian injuries and the destruction of homes, prompting emergency evacuations.
The Ministry highlighted ongoing provocative actions by Thai forces, accompanied by disinformation campaigns aimed at escalating the military conflict. Despite these challenges, Cambodian troops have adhered to ceasefire obligations, emphasizing their commitment to peaceful resolution in accordance with international law.