The Ministry of Defence spokesperson summarized that 21 Thai soldiers have been killed, while Cambodia continues to launch over 100 BM-21 rockets targeting civilian areas in Sa Kaeo Province.
At 10:00 a.m. on 18 Dec 2025 GMT+7, the Thai-Cambodian Joint Situation News Center reported that Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, Ministry of Defence spokesperson, summarized the border situation. He stated that recently, Cambodian forces have launched more than 100 BM-21 rockets targeting civilian areas in Sa Kaeo, especially the agricultural zones of Ban Nong Jan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, causing fires that damaged over 1,000 rai of farmland. Thai forces had to defend themselves, resulting in 20 Thai soldiers killed in combat and one additional soldier who died while on duty, totaling 21 fatalities.
Lieutenant Colonel Richcha Suksuwanun, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Army, provided an update that Cambodian attacks continue across all areas with varying intensity. Thai forces have secured several locations and established security to prevent counterattacks from Cambodia, including in Ubon Ratchathani (Chong An Ma), Sam Tae, Surin (Chong Chom, Chong Plo, Chong Ray, Prasat Khna). Cambodia continues attempts to seize territory, but Thai forces still hold the advantage in these areas.
Heavy fighting continues at Prasat Ta Kwai in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province, a strategically important battlefield focused on Hill 350. There have been many Thai soldier casualties, and two soldiers remain missing with their bodies unrecovered. Officials are still attempting recovery while Cambodian forces press intense attacks.
Lieutenant Colonel Richcha said that in the First Army Region, Eastern Task Force, Thai forces are pushing back Cambodian incursions at three main points: Ban Khlong Phaeng, Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, and Ban Nong Jan. Both sides try to control these areas, but the flat terrain and local communities result in exchanges of curved-trajectory artillery and rocket fire as they contest control. Notably, Cambodia has used BM-21 rockets against agricultural and civilian areas, firing hundreds of rounds. This is unacceptable and will be met with counteraction. These areas remain contested.
Some locations experience fluctuating intensity, but contested zones remain heavily fought over. Thai forces aim to suppress Cambodian attacks as much as possible to prevent territorial incursions, while also reclaiming Thai sovereign territory and destroying Cambodian military assets targeting Thai civilians, who have suffered increasing hardship. The Royal Thai Army affirms its commitment to militarily neutralize Cambodia's capabilities to prevent further harm to Thai citizens.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Naphatsakorn Thipsawarn, assistant spokesperson of the Royal Thai Navy, reported on the situation at three houses in Ban Nong Ree, Trat Province, after Thai forces reclaimed the area. Yesterday, the Joint Task Force inspected the area and found a cache of 16 anti-personnel mines modified from anti-tank mines, as well as several more mines in the vicinity. This act intentionally endangered lives without specific targets.
The Navy emphasized that such actions violate international humanitarian law, international obligations, and the Ottawa Convention. The Royal Thai Armed Forces are committed to defending sovereignty, security, and public safety strictly under international law and humanitarian principles.
Police Major General Siriwat Deepor, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police, updated on arrests of Cambodian nationals inciting disturbances on roads in Chonburi Province. The suspects provoked conflict between Thai and Cambodian people and displayed weapons including explosives. Chonburi police identified about 10 suspects, arresting three Cambodian nationals so far. Charges include unauthorized possession and use of explosives, carrying weapons in public without valid reason, and causing public nuisance.
The heaviest penalty involves use of explosives, punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment. The three arrested Cambodian men will face full legal consequences under Thai law, followed by deportation and blacklisting from re-entry. The remaining seven suspects are urged to surrender promptly, as police have identified them and will continue arrests. The Royal Thai Police affirm their commitment to maintaining order and enforcing laws to ensure public peace.
Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Maratee Nalita Andamo, stated the ministry is closely monitoring Thai nationals stranded in Poipet, Cambodia. The ministry is ready to facilitate their air travel back to Thailand, with sufficient flights currently available and capacity to arrange more if needed. Travel documents are not a barrier; those lacking proper documents can contact the Thai embassy or consulate to obtain emergency travel papers. Registration and contact should be made through the phone numbers previously provided by the ministry.
This situation followed Cambodia's announcement to suspend all land border crossings along the Thai-Cambodian border for both Thai and foreign nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned this as inconsistent with international norms and law. On 17 Dec 2025 GMT+7, the Foreign Minister sent a letter to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to clarify Thailand’s position and address human rights violations occurring. The ministry reiterates that stranded Thai nationals should contact the embassy directly for urgent assistance.