Phnom penh: The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as a deliberate and premeditated invasion and assault on Cambodia by the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The CMAA highlights the recent admission by Thailand of using cluster munitions, which has resulted in a humanitarian disaster impacting innocent Cambodian civilians.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the CMAA's statement underscores the tragedy unfolding not as a conflict between armies but as a crisis affecting families, women, children, monks, and farmers. In the past 72 hours, lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and places of worship damaged. The Preah Vihear Temple, a world heritage site and symbol of spiritual peace and national identity, has suffered significant damage due to the attacks. The trauma experienced by the Cambodian people is profound and is expected to have long-lasting effects.
Cluster munitions, confirmed to be used by the Thai army, are described as particularly devastating. They remain dangerous long after initial deployment, posing ongoing threats in areas such as rice fields, schoolyards, and temple grounds. These munitions continue to cause harm, maiming farmers, killing children, and instilling fear in communities.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and Prime Minister Hun Manet have both emphasized the seriousness of the situation. The Cambodian leadership remains united in defending the nation's sovereignty and commitment to peace.
Thousands of Cambodian families are fleeing the affected areas, not from direct battle, but from the threat of cluster bombs. The violence has disrupted education, forcing nearly 500 schools to close in the border provinces, impacting over 130,000 students and teachers.
The CMAA calls for international solidarity, urging governments and individuals to stand with Cambodia, condemn the actions, and demand accountability. The authority reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and clearing remnants of war but emphasizes the need for global support in achieving peace and justice.