Editorial: Thai military aggression devastates Cambodians
Editorial: Thai military aggression devastates Cambodians
Dear Editor,
Thailand’s military aggression along the northern border has had devastating consequences for Cambodia—impacting not only historical and cultural sites but also the lives and livelihoods of countless Cambodian civilians.
A Buddhist pagoda near the Ta Moan Thom Temple was severely damaged, and parts of the UNESCO-listed 11th-century Preah Vihear Temple were also affected. These losses go far beyond physical destruction; they undermine the economic security and cultural identity of the region.
Even during the Khmer Rouge era—a regime known for its genocide—the Preah Vihear Temple remained untouched. Yet, recent Thai military action has caused immense damage to this invaluable heritage site. Such acts must be addressed through legal channels, and those responsible should be held accountable under international law.
As a result of such aggression, tens of thousands of Cambodian villagers have been forced to flee their homes, leaving behind their farms and livestock. Fertile fields now lie fallow, and the threat of food shortages looms, especially as rice—the staple food of Cambodians—can no longer be cultivated.
Worse still, the use of cluster munitions and heavy artillery has littered the area with unexploded ordnance (UXOs), making it extremely dangerous for demining teams from the Cambodian Mine Action Center to clear the land. This severely hampers efforts to allow displaced residents to return home safely.
Thousands of students have been unable to attend school due to the conflict, disrupting their education and deepening the social toll of the aggression. These inhumane actions further compound the suffering that Cambodians have already endured through decades of war. Communities that have worked hard to rebuild now find their dreams of a better life shattered. Though some have tried to grow corn and cassava instead of rice, even this has become impossible due to the displacement.
The shelling has not only destroyed infrastructure but also left dangerous remnants that continue to threaten lives. Families are unable to earn a living or provide for their children. Rebuilding their lives will be a long and difficult process.
This conflict should be addressed through international mechanisms such as the International Court of Justice or multilateral committees—not through artillery, airstrikes, or violence against Cambodian civilians.
During the Thai military attack on Cambodia from July 24 to 28, a wide array of heavy weapons were used, including drones, bombs, and cluster munitions. These attacks have severely harmed civilians, destroyed cultural heritage sites, public infrastructure, religious buildings, schools, health centers, and homes. The long-term impacts on public health and well-being are grave.
All nations must commit to peace and reject violence. We share one planet, and coexistence must be rooted in mutual respect, compassion, and dialogue. Differences in language or culture should not hinder our ability to understand each other as fellow human beings.
To end human suffering, a complete and sincere ceasefire must be enforced. Cambodian villagers—especially farmers—need the opportunity to return home, resume their lives, and begin the process of recovery.
Concerned citizen
Khmer Times
