PUBLISHED : 15 Dec 2025 at 13:08

Thai forces have retaken Ta Kwai temple ruins, and raised the Thai national flag over the area on Monday. (Photo: Army Military Force Facebook page)

Fighting continued along the Thai-Cambodian border on Monday with Cambodian rockets fired from BM-21 launchers exploding near the Ta Kwai temple ruins and around Hill 350, both strategic high points in Surin province.

The attack began about 6.06am, and Thai forces returned fire. Exchanges of gunfire were expected to continue throughout the day, as in previous clashes near Ta Kwai temple, Hill 350, Chong Krang and Ta Muen Thom temple ruins in Phanom Dong Rak district of Surin, according to informed border sources.

Cambodia appeared intent on reclaiming Ta Kwai temple and Hill 350, which offer a tactical advantage. Monday’s attack followed heavy rocket fire on Sunday afternoon and evening, when BM-21 rockets struck homes, temples and farm land in tambon Bak Dai of Phanom Dong Rak district.

Thai artillery responded with sustained barrages until the gunfire subsided around 10pm.

The Army Military Force Facebook page reported around noon on Monday that Thai forces had retaken Ta Kwai temple and raised the Thai national flag over the area.

Local officials, soldiers and police on Monday delivered food and medical supplies to local leaders in tambon Bak Dai.

Local authorities confirmed that Phanom Dong Rak district had been placed under martial law. Village leaders were instructed to tighten security, prevent theft and exercise caution when speaking to the media, particularly regarding troop positions. Local residents have been barred from returning to their homes until further notice.

There were reports that Cambodia had reinforced its positions, bringing in an additional 300 soldiers, raising concerns that the clashes could intensify in the coming days.