Cambodia Alerts Civilians and Tourism Sector as Air Attacks Intensify Near Siem Reap
Cambodian authorities have raised alarm over increasing aerial attacks from Thailand, warning that civilian shelters and major tourism zones are now exposed to danger as cross-border hostilities escalate.
Officials confirmed that air strikes have expanded into Siem Reap province, an area known globally for hosting the historic Angkor temple complex, signaling a widening of the ongoing conflict between the two neighboring nations.
Air Raids Strike Areas Near Evacuation Sites
Government statements revealed that fighter aircraft released explosives close to locations sheltering displaced residents in northwestern Cambodia. The affected zones include Oddar Meanchey province and parts of Siem Reap, where infrastructure damage was also reported.
This development marks a new phase in the conflict, as previous fighting had largely remained limited to remote border regions. Authorities confirmed that transport routes were impacted, increasing concerns about humanitarian access and civilian movement.
Long-Running Border Dispute Fuels Violence
The renewed violence stems from unresolved territorial disagreements that have resurfaced after a confrontation earlier this month injured military personnel on the Thai side. Since then, military operations have continued without pause, despite earlier international efforts to calm the situation.
Both sides report ongoing exchanges involving air power, artillery fire, and rocket systems, indicating a sustained military engagement.
Widespread Displacement and Civilian Harm
Cambodia reports that hundreds of thousands of people have fled their homes as fighting spreads across multiple districts. Civilian casualties have been confirmed, with dozens more suffering injuries due to the bombardments.
Thailand has released figures claiming extensive damage to Cambodian military assets, while Cambodian officials have dismissed those claims, describing them as inflated and politically motivated.
Threat to Cultural Sites and Regional Stability
The proximity of air strikes to Cambodia’s cultural and economic landmarks has raised fears about long-term damage to tourism and heritage preservation. Experts warn that continued escalation could undermine regional stability and further strain humanitarian resources.
With diplomatic progress stalled, residents in affected areas remain on high alert as uncertainty continues to dominate the border regions.