The Defense Ministry spokesperson outlined the overall border situation, reporting that Cambodia has launched concentrated attacks since morning on Hill 677, Hill 350, and Ta Kwai Temple. Thailand asserts it will not hold back and must retaliate to defend itself. The spokesperson emphasized three conditions for ceasefire negotiations, requiring Cambodia's genuine commitment.
At 16:00 on 16 Dec 2025 GMT+7, at the Joint Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation Press Center, Rear Admiral Surasak Khongsiri, Defense Ministry spokesperson, stated that since early this morning, Cambodia has continued launching attacks using multiple rocket launchers (BM-21), targeting Thai territory. Notably, at 07:00, Cambodia concentrated attacks on Hill 677 near Chong An Ma area.
Later, at 11:00, BM-21 rockets targeted Hill 350, close to Ta Kwai Temple, and at 12:00, multiple rocket launchers bombarded Ta Kwai Temple itself, still under Thai control. This demonstrates that although Thailand controls these areas, vigilance against Cambodian counterattacks remains necessary, in line with the military commanders’ policy. The situation remains dynamic and ongoing. Thailand confirms it will not hold back and must retaliate against Cambodian attacks to defend itself.
Regarding naval operations today, the National Security Council (NSC) resolved to assign the Marine National Security Command (MNSC) to supervise and manage operations in the area. Coordination with relevant agencies is mandated, including warning Thai vessels entering risky zones and working with the Marine Department to inspect Thai ships potentially transporting war-related goods to Cambodia. The NSC has resolved to regulate maritime transport of oil and military supplies for Thai-flagged commercial vessels. However, this resolution has not yet been officially enforced due to necessary procedural reviews and regulatory development.
Emphasizing three conditions for ceasefire negotiations: Cambodia must be sincere.
The Defense Ministry spokesperson also stressed Thailand’s three conditions for a ceasefire: Cambodia must initiate the ceasefire proposal; the ceasefire must be sincere and continuous; and Cambodia must genuinely cooperate in clearing landmines along the border. The response from Cambodia on these points remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the impact on Thai civilians currently includes 263,285 people displaced to temporary shelters across 996 sites. Indirect fatalities number 15, with one death directly due to Cambodian attacks, and six injured. Twenty hospitals and 214 sub-district health promotion hospitals have been affected.
Navy confirms lifting curfew in Trat Province.
Rear Admiral Surasak added that the authorities aim to minimize impact on civilians from recent clashes. The curfew was declared to protect lives and property, ensure public safety, and prevent espionage or sabotage attempts. The situation in Trat Province is now under control.
Lieutenant Commander Napatsakorn Tipsaw, assistant spokesperson for the Navy, confirmed the curfew in Trat Province has been lifted as the situation is now controlled, allowing residents to resume normal daily life.
Commerce Ministry reports short-term border trade impact from Thai-Cambodian conflict.
Later, Mr. Duangathit Nithiuthai, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, reported that since Thailand closed its trade checkpoints, overall trade has been minimally affected, especially Thai exports. While some citizens and business operators have experienced impact, the Ministry of Commerce has implemented several programs to stabilize living costs and support normal life, including consumer goods projects like the Blue Flag initiative.
He expressed confidence that the situation at Chong Mek checkpoint in Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, will ease. Oil sent from Thailand to Laos is confirmed to be used domestically in Laos and not forwarded further. The reopening of checkpoints depends on security authorities. He assured that the Ministry of Commerce will collaborate with military officials and the private sector to navigate the economic and trade challenges during this difficult period.
Mr. Nithi Seeprae, Deputy Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand for Marketing Communications, reported that tourism is currently stable, with continuous arrivals of foreign tourists in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, and Chonburi Provinces, with no cancellations. Tourist numbers have reached 31.1 million, aiming for 32 million by year-end. He acknowledged that foreign countries are concerned about the Thailand-Cambodia border situation and have issued travel advisories, leading to some cancellations to other regions.