Cambodia-Thailand News / Cambodia shot down Thailand's F-16 fighter jet, know what PM Hun Manet said

Cambodia-Thailand News: The military conflict going on between Thailand and Cambodia on the border has deepened. So far 9 people have been reported dead in the fierce fighting between the armies of the two countries. Thailand carried out air strikes on Phnom Penh with F-16 fighter jets in response to Cambodia's rocket attacks. According to a report by The Phnom Penh Post, Thailand attacked Cambodia with 6 F-16 jets on Thursday, 24 July 2025, in which the Cambodian army has claimed to have shot down a Thai jet.

Major centers of conflict

According to The Phnom Penh Post, the areas around Ta Muen Thom Temple, Ta Krabei Temple, Mom Bei area and Preah Vihear Temple remain the main centers of this conflict. The armies of both the countries have been attacking each other since morning. The Cambodian leadership says Thailand launched the attack as part of the "Chakpong Phuwanat military strategy", which was also used in the 2008-2011 Preah Vihear temple dispute.

Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet said, "The Thai army attacked our posts in Oddar Meanchey province and then expanded the scope of its attacks to the Mom Bei area. Cambodia always wants peace, but it is our duty to respond to the attack on our sovereignty."

Cambodian government's stance

Prime Minister Hun Manet assured the countrymen that the government and the army are fully committed to protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Aid is being provided to citizens in the affected areas. Senate Chairman Hun Sen also confirmed the attack, saying that on July 23, the Thai army had ordered the closure of the Ta Muen Thom temple, after which the attacks started the next day. He said, "The Cambodian army is now forced to retaliate."

Appeal to citizens for peace

Prime Minister Hun Sen appealed to citizens to avoid panic and refrain from taking steps like hoarding rations or raising prices. He said, "Keep life normal in all areas except the borders of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces."

Thailand's military strategy

According to a report by Thai PBS World, the Thai army has re-implemented the "Chakpong Phuwanat military strategy". This strategy was historically used during the Preah Vihear temple dispute and has now been reactivated.

Cambodian journalist's claim

Cambodian journalist Soi Sopheap claimed that Thailand bombed the border with 6 F-16 jets. The Cambodian army shot down a Thai fighter jet in retaliation. Both countries have appealed to their respective people to maintain peace and trust the government.