Border clashes: Cambodian civilian death toll rises to 17: Ministry

December 17, 2025

Phnom Penh: Cambodia on Wednesday accused Thai military forces of continuing airstrikes and artillery shelling inside Cambodian territory, as the civilian death toll in Cambodia rose to 17 amid the renewed border conflict.

Cambodia alleges fresh attacks

Cambodian Defence Ministry’s Undersecretary of State and spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said Thai forces launched attacks early Wednesday using tank-mounted machine guns, bombing drones, artillery and an F-16 fighter jet. The strikes reportedly targeted areas in Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey and Pursat provinces.

She said 77 civilians have been injured so far, according to Xinhua news agency.

Large-scale displacement in Cambodia

The ongoing hostilities have forced more than 130,000 Cambodian families—around 438,000 people—to flee their homes and take shelter in safer areas, official figures show.

Thailand reiterates ceasefire stance

The Cambodia–Thailand border conflict has flared up again since December 7, with both sides blaming each other for initiating the violence. On Tuesday, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Cambodia must be the first to declare a ceasefire and ensure it is genuine and sustainable, while also cooperating seriously on mine clearance.

Thai MFA deputy spokesperson Maratee Nalita Andamo said Thailand’s position has remained consistent and has been repeatedly stated by the prime minister, foreign minister and the ministry.

She also confirmed that Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow will attend an ASEAN foreign ministers’ special meeting on the issue scheduled for December 22.

According to Thai authorities, the current round of fighting has killed 17 Thai soldiers and 16 Thai civilians, displacing over 260,000 people as of Tuesday morning.