(Phnom Penh): On 24 July 2026, Cambodia marked the first anniversary of the Thai military's armed aggression along the Cambodia-Thailand border. Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra paid tribute to civilians who lost their homes and livelihoods during the conflict while reaffirming Cambodia's commitment to peace, justice, and the protection of its sovereignty.

In a commemorative message posted on his social media on Friday (Jul. 24), Neth Pheaktra recalled the events of 24-27 July 2025, when homes and properties that once provided warmth, safety, and peace to Cambodian families in Oddar Meanchey Province were destroyed by heavy artillery fired by the Thai military during its armed invasion of Cambodian territory.

“Each home that was destroyed was not merely a structure built of wood, brick, or concrete. It was a place where families had built their lives, raised their children, safeguarded their belongings, and created lasting memories together,” he said, noting that years of hard work and sacrifice were devastated within only a few days of violence.

“The Thai military may claim to be a professional, disciplined force that respects military codes of conduct. Yet the shattered homes, destroyed property, and devastated livelihoods of Cambodian civilians reveal a truth that cannot be concealed. A truly professional military protects civilians; it does not launch indiscriminate attacks or destroy the places in which innocent people live,” he added.

The information minister stated that the ruins of these homes stand as silent yet powerful witnesses to the suffering, fear, and loss endured by Cambodian civilians. “They demonstrate that the armed invasion did not affect only soldiers on the front line; it also destroyed the lives, security, and future of innocent civilian families.”

Marking the anniversary, Neth Pheaktra said 24 July serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of safeguarding Cambodia's peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
“Cambodia remembers the tragedy not to foster hatred but to seek truth, justice, accountability, and firm assurances that such aggression and destruction will never be repeated,” he underscored.

“We remember the homes that were destroyed. We remember the families forced to flee. We remember the suffering of civilians. And we will not allow the truth to be forgotten or distorted.”
=FRESH NEWS