(Phnom Penh): Cambodia firmly rejected Thailand’s accusation that Cambodian Ministry of National Defence misinterpreted remarks by the commander of Thailand’s Second Army Region, who publicly threatened to seize Ta Krabei Temple and close Ta Moan Thom Temple.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Chum Sounry said in a press conference on Tuesday (Aug. 12).
On 10 August 2025, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, Commander of Thailand’s Second Army Region, announced his retirement plans, which included: (1) seizing Ta Krabei Temple from Cambodia’s lawful administration; and (2) closing Ta Moan Thom Temple, located within Cambodia’s sovereign territory.
The spokesperson underlined, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation notes with concern the statement issued by Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 11 August 2025 regarding the public statement made on 10 August 2025 by the commander of Thailand's Second Army Region that Thai soldiers will reclaim Ta Krabei Temple and plans to close Ta Moan Thom Temple."
“Cambodia rejects Thai suggestion of Cambodia's misrepresentation,” he said.
Cambodia considers the statement made by the Thai Second Army commander to be clear, irrefutable evidence of provocation and a deliberate, premeditated attempt to invade Cambodian territory.
=FRESH NEWS
