Cambodia Condemns Thai Military After Temple Reduced to Ruin
Cambodia has issued a strong condemnation of the Thai military after renewed shelling on 10 December 2025 completely destroyed Ta Krabey Temple, an 11th-century heritage site in Oddar Meanchey province. The attack came just a day after earlier strikes that had already caused severe damage, despite the ministry’s prior appeals.
Ta Krabey Temple, built under Kings Suryavarman I--has long been preserved as a symbol of Khmer civilization and revered by local communities. Cambodia described “the latest bombardment as “immoral,” “barbaric,” and a grave violation of international conventions protecting cultural property, including the 1954 and 1972 UNESCO conventions.”
Cambodia called on foreign governments, international organizations and the global community to condemn the assault and press Thailand to halt further destruction and respect the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration.
“The loss of Ta Krabey Temple marks a cultural tragedy for Cambodia, noting that while the structure has been reduced to ruins, it will remain a lasting symbol of Khmer heritage and a reminder of the need to protect cultural sites from future conflict,” Cambodia said in the statement.
