KhmerTimes-Aug 13, 2025
The National Authority for Preah Vihear has completed a preliminary assessment of damage to 125 locations within the Preah Vihear World Heritage Site following drone and airstrike attacks by the Thai military in late July. The damage has been described as more severe than that sustained during the 2008–2011 border clashes. This initial assessment was confirmed on national television by Kong Puthikar, Director-General of the National Authority for Preah Vihear. He stated that the Thai military incursion into Cambodian territory in late July resulted in the deaths of both soldiers and civilians, the destruction of property, and significant damage to the Preah Vihear Temple – an irreplaceable cultural and historical monument of Cambodia and a site of outstanding universal value to humanity.
The Preah Vihear Temple, an ancient Khmer structure situated in the Dangrek Mountains of Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province, is dedicated to a Hindu deity and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 7, 2008. Puthikar noted that since its designation as a World Heritage Site, Preah Vihear Temple has experienced two military conflicts due to ongoing border tensions with Thailand – first from 2008 to 2011, and most recently, during the Thai military’s five-day offensive from July 24 to 28, 2025. He stated that this latest assault has caused greater damage than the previous conflict, as it involved the use of advanced weaponry, including drones and F-16 fighter jets. According to the preliminary report, the 47 shells impacted 125 locations within the temple complex, causing significant damage to various parts. The National Authority is preparing a comprehensive damage report to be submitted to UNESCO and other international heritage organizations. Read more at: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501737106/assessment-reveals-extensive-damage-to-preah-vihear/
