Cambodia fired BM-21 rockets and artillery shells at the Pha Mo I Daeng tourist site and nearby community in Sisaket, injuring several personnel. Authorities ordered the closure of seven subdistricts and strictly prohibited entry due to ongoing combat operations.
On 24 Dec 2025 GMT+7, reporters covered the ongoing battle along the Thai-Cambodian border in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province. Throughout the day, sounds of artillery and BM-21 rockets, as well as gunfire from light and heavy weapons, echoed during exchanges between Thai and Cambodian soldiers near Chong Ta Thao, Khao Phra Wihan.
Especially near the entrance to Khao Phra Wihan National Park at Pha Mo I Daeng, BM-21 rockets and artillery shells of unknown caliber fired by Cambodian forces fell on the local market and the Pha Mo I Daeng tourist facilities within Khao Phra Wihan National Park, Kantharalak District, Sisaket. Buildings were completely destroyed, bunkers damaged, kitchens wrecked, and several personnel injured. There is no sign that either side intends to cease fire.
Meanwhile, security and local administration officials continue to block access to villages across seven subdistricts in Kantharalak District because these are active combat zones. Civilians are strictly forbidden from entering. Only Village Defense Volunteers remain in the area to protect residents' property and livestock, while evacuated villagers stay in temporary shelters.
Mr. Samai Poonsuk, 60, a Village Defense Volunteer, parked his pickup at a checkpoint about 10 kilometers from the combat zone. His truck carried over 20 bundles of dry straw. He explained he must leave the combat area daily to collect straw to feed animals of villagers who evacuated, which is a normal duty for the volunteers. He also cares for dogs, cats, pigs, chickens, and other livestock. He admitted that local authorities do not allow villagers to enter, and volunteers can only stay inside bunkers, forbidden from inspecting damage due to ongoing heavy fighting.
When asked how he wished the problem to be resolved, Mr. Samai said he wants the military conflict to end decisively so villagers no longer have to evacuate. Many homes are already damaged. Regarding military talks between Thai and Cambodian forces, he has no hope for a settlement, saying Cambodia is not trustworthy.
Mr. Wichian Boonyok, 69, came to register at the checkpoint prohibiting entry to the combat zone. He said he needed to retrieve his regular medication and check on his house, promising to return quickly. He admitted feeling scared of possible shelling but said he must enter briefly out of necessity.
Asked how he wanted the issue resolved, Mr. Wichian said he has evacuated since 7 Dec and it has been over two weeks. He misses his home and finds life difficult despite good care at the shelter. He hopes for a swift resolution and a decisive end to the fighting because he does not want to evacuate again.