Oddar Meanchey, Cambodia – July 26, 2025
Calls for peace have intensified after heavy artillery shelling by the Siem (Thai) military struck two Cambodian villages, displacing civilians and damaging essential infrastructure.
According to reports, on July 24 and 25, 2025, Thai military forces launched heavy artillery fire into O’Pok village and Kok Prasat village, located in Kon Kriel Sangkat, Samraong city, in Cambodia’s northern Oddar Meanchey province.
The bombardment caused significant destruction to homes and local schools, forcing dozens of families to evacuate in fear for their safety. As of July 26, unexploded shells and large shell craters remain scattered across the affected areas, posing an ongoing risk to civilians and children.
Cambodian officials have condemned the act, describing it as a serious violation of national sovereignty and a grave threat to civilian life. Local residents are now left traumatized, with many seeking refuge and emergency aid.
“Cambodia is acting in self-defense,” a local government representative stated. “We do not want war, but we cannot ignore attacks on our people.”
Photos and witness accounts from the scene depict extensive damage and distress among the population, with emergency services and demining teams deployed to secure the area.
This incident has sparked public outcry online, with users sharing messages under hashtags such as:
#ThailandShootsFirst #CambodiaLovePeaceButWhenItComesToWarWeAreNotCowardly #JusticeForCambodia #ThailandOpenedFire
