The sacred Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enduring symbol of Cambodia’s national identity, has come under brutal attack by invading Thai military forces.
In a shocking act of aggression, Thai troops deployed multiple MK-82 bombs, each weighing approximately 230 kilograms, directly onto the temple compound. A barrage of heavy artillery followed, including 155mm shells and cluster munitions, suggesting a calculated attempt to annihilate the ancient temple, which holds immense historical, spiritual, and cultural value for the Cambodian people.
In an act of self-defense, Cambodia’s armed forces launched a counteroffensive and ultimately succeeded in repelling the invading forces following a series of intense clashes.
This marks the first time in over 50 years that MK-82 bombs have been used on Cambodian soil. The last recorded instance was during the U.S. bombing campaign in May 1975, when 919,622 MK-82 bombs were dropped across 55,614 sites during 115,886 air raids. Yet even in that era of devastation, Preah Vihear Temple remained untouched.
The sanctity of Preah Vihear has long been honored. In ancient times, even Siamese monarchs sought legitimacy by drawing sacred water from its grounds for royal rituals. For any nation or actor to now attempt its destruction is not only a crime against Cambodia, it is a desecration of global heritage.
Let it be known: those who dare defile Preah Vihear Temple will face not only the wrath of karma, but the judgment of history and the undying spirit of a people who will never forget.
Author: Srymanit Huot