Cambodia Protests Thai Military Actions at Ta Krabei Temple

Cambodia Protests Thai Military Actions at Ta Krabei Temple

PHNOM PENH, Jan 22, 2026 — Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts on Thursday issued a formal protest against what it described as Thai military actions at Ta Krabei Temple, condemning both damage to the ancient structure and infrastructure works carried out in its vicinity.

In a statement, the ministry said the temple, located within Cambodia’s sovereign territory, had suffered near-total destruction following shelling attributed to Thai forces, calling the site a protected archaeological and sacred place preserved for generations. It said any use of armed force or construction activities altering the area’s status constituted a serious violation of international law, including principles prohibiting territorial acquisition by force.

The ministry urged Thailand to immediately halt all activities at and around Ta Krabei Temple and called for a peaceful resolution of border issues in accordance with international law and the 1904 and 1907 Franco–Siamese treaties.