Thailand Shells Civilian Areas Including Border Town of Poipet
POIPET, Cambodia — December 21, 2025 — Thai military forces fired artillery shells into civilian areas near the Cambodian border town of Poipet this afternoon, intensifying the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to local reports, artillery rounds landed on the outskirts of Poipet City in Banteay Meanchey province around 14:00 local time. Though there were no immediate reports of direct strikes on the city center, exploding shells landed close enough to force panic and accelerate ongoing evacuations.
The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence described the shelling as part of a broader offensive by Thai forces, which it says has targeted both military and civilian areas across multiple provinces along the border. Cambodian officials say the attacks have caused civilian casualties, extensive injuries, and widespread displacement.
Civilian Impact and Displacement
The recent strike near Poipet comes amid reports that the conflict has already displaced thousands of residents, with many fleeing toward safer districts further inland. Although the town itself has not been devastated, the fear of escalating violence is driving families to leave homes and seek shelter elsewhere.
Cambodian authorities allege that Thai fighter jets and artillery have repeatedly struck populated areas, causing dozens of civilian deaths and injuries. A separate update from the Khmer Times notes 18 Cambodian civilians killed in recent aerial bombardments and clashes in Banteay Meanchey and surrounding provinces.
International Reaction and Calls for Restraint
Cambodian officials continue to condemn the shelling as a violation of sovereignty and international law. Phnom Penh has urged the international community to intervene and pressure Thailand to cease fire operations that harm civilian populations.
Despite diplomatic efforts and calls for de-escalation, fighting along the 817-kilometer frontier has intensified this month, with both sides accusing the other of initiating attacks and targeting non-combatants.
What’s Next
As of late December 21, military exchanges along the border show no sign of abating. Humanitarian organizations are monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing the need for civilian protection and humanitarian access as displacement continues. Stable communication and transport routes remain disrupted in key border zones
