Cambodia Calls for Justice as ASEAN Observers Investigate Thai Attacks in Preah Vihear
Cambodia Calls for Justice as ASEAN Observers Investigate Thai Attacks in Preah Vihear
The ASEAN Interim Observers Team (IOT) has inspected the sites affected by two rounds of attacks carried out by the Thai military, after Cambodia formally requested a thorough investigation into evidence left at the scene in Preah Vihear province.
In a statement issued today, Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said Cambodia is urging the IOT to forensically examine the remaining evidence, “particularly, placing the attention on the types of ammunition used and the directions of firing.”
She stressed that such an investigation would help establish “accurate, truthful, accountable, and transparent facts, ensuring fairness and justice regarding the incident for both parties as well as the general public.”
Today, the Ministry of National Defence facilitated the visit of the IOT, led by Malaysia along with its members, to inspect the sites affected by two rounds of attacks carried out by Thai military forces using mortars and small arms against a Cambodian military base in the An Seh area, Preah Vihear province.
The site inspection took place one day after Thai military forces launched the attacks on Cambodian troops in An Seh village, Choam Khsan commune, Choam Khsan district, Preah Vihear province. The firing began at around 11:52 AM and continued until 12:46 PM, with two rounds of attacks: the first from 11:52 AM to 12:22 PM, and the second from 12:25 PM to 12:46 PM.
During these incidents, Cambodian forces did not retaliate, as they strictly adhered to the guiding principle of maintaining maximum restraint and fully implemented the ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand, which came into force at 24:00 hours (local time) on 28 July 2025, with firmness and consistency.
In the meantime, Cambodia has expressed grave concern over provocations and continued firing from the Thai side. On 27 September 2025 at 11:52 AM, Thailand launched an attack on Cambodian forces and subsequently accused Cambodia of opening fire first. Such actions, the Ministry warned, could undermine respect for and the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, further complicating the situation and escalating tensions.
-Khmer Times-
