A spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed a grim toll following recent border events. Five Cambodian soldiers have died. Another twenty-one soldiers suffered injuries. Civilians also bore the brunt of the violence. Eight people in Oddar Meanchey province were killed. Fifty more civilians were wounded there.
During a press conference held on the morning of July 26th, the defense ministry’s representative spoke firmly. They described the events not as a simple clash, but as “brutal Thai aggression.” This strong language highlights the deep divisions and differing views on the incidents. The spokesperson did not mince words about what they see as ongoing hostile actions.
The military actions have caused a massive wave of displacement. Ms. Malee Sochetata provided details on the civilian exodus. In Oddar Meanchey province, 6,577 families, totaling 23,228 people, had to leave their homes. Preah Vihear province saw 3,112 families, or 10,420 people, displaced. Further south, 94 families (201 people) moved from Pursat province. Banteay Meanchey province also experienced displacement, with 524 families and 1,880 people seeking safety.
Across the affected regions, a staggering 35,829 families have been uprooted. They were forced to abandon their homes and safe zones. Cambodian officials accuse Thailand of escalating the situation. They claim Thailand is sending more troops to attack and shows no interest in easing tensions. Cambodia pointed to Thailand’s declaration of martial law in Trat province. This area borders Koh Kong and Pursat provinces. They also noted Thai troop movements towards Banteay Meanchey province on July 25th as part of a readiness plan.
The defense ministry spokesperson expressed serious concerns about these military movements. They stated, “These troop preparations show Thailand intends to aggressively expand its attacks on Cambodia and violate Cambodian sovereignty further.” The spokesperson added that Thailand is using “baseless accusations,” such as claims of the Cambodian army violating landmines, as an excuse to push deeper into Cambodian territory.
Source: Thmey Thmey