Cambodia Rejects Repeated Thai Allegations and Protests Unauthorized Activities at Cambodian Cultural Heritage Sites

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts of the Kingdom of Cambodia firmly and categorically rejects the repeated allegations by Thai military authorities that Cambodia has used ancient temples for military purposes. These unfounded claims distort the facts, mislead the public, and divert attention from the destruction and damage inflicted upon Cambodian cultural heritage by Thai armed forces.

Cambodia reaffirms that its ancient temples and archaeological sites are places of cultural and historical significance, religious worship, conservation, research, education and tourism, not military bases. As a State Party to the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and the 1972 World Heritage Convention, Cambodia remains firmly committed to protecting its cultural heritage in accordance with international law.

At the same time, Cambodia strongly protests against the continued presence of Thai forces and the various unilateral activities undertaken by Thai authorities at Tamone Thom, Ta Krabey and K’nar Temples, as well as other Cambodian archaeological sites along the Cambodia–Thailand border, without Cambodia’s consent. These activities include demining operations, infrastructure and electricity-network development, restoration and construction projects, and other interventions affecting these sites. Such actions raise serious concerns regarding respect for Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and risk prejudicing the peaceful resolution of outstanding border issues.

Cambodia further recalls the extensive damage inflicted upon the Temple of Preah Vihear and other Cambodian cultural heritage sites during the armed clashes of July and December 2025. The documented destruction of irreplaceable cultural property underscores the urgent need for restraint, accountability and full respect for international conventions protecting cultural heritage.

The Ministry therefore calls upon the Thai authorities to cease their unfounded accusations, refrain from all unilateral activities at Cambodian cultural heritage sites, respect Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and resolve outstanding issues through peaceful means and established bilateral mechanisms, including the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). Cambodia also reiterates its call for the return of archaeological objects removed from K’nar Temple and taken to Thailand

Cambodia’s ancient temples are an integral part of its national identity and the shared heritage of humanity. They must be protected, not politicized; preserved, not exploited; and respected, not subjected to unilateral actions or military confrontation. Cambodia remains committed to safeguarding its cultural heritage for future generations and calls upon all parties to uphold international law and their obligations to protect cultural property.