Cambodia: The Mekong Bells — Silent Messengers of War

By Sreng Lyda

As Christmas bells ring to herald the festive season — evoking angels’ praises, joyful carols, and the arrival of Santa Claus — the Mekong River has taken on a far more somber role for villagers along its banks in Stung Treng province. In late 2025, its waters have become a silent witness to conflict and upheaval.

An Unexpected Thai Invasion

In a shocking turn of events, Thailand launched a second invasion against Cambodia’s territorial integrity on the morning of 7 December 2025, just as peace was thought to have been restored under a formal agreement signed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with the United States playing a key role in negotiations. The assault shattered everyday life for Cambodians living near the frontlines, transforming tranquil communities into zones of danger and fear.

Hundreds of thousands were forced to flee to safer regions, while Cambodian troops rushed to the border to defend the nation’s sovereignty.

F-16 Fighters and Bombardments

On 8 December 2025, military reports and media outlets documented the use of Thai F-16 fighter jets dropping bombs on Cambodian territory along the Thai-Cambodian frontier. These air raids continued, unleashing explosives and submunitions that devastated villages, schools, Khmer temples, pagodas, homes, roads, and civilian infrastructure.

For survivors — especially those who lived through the Khmer Rouge era — the onslaught evoked chilling historical memories of fear, terror, and loss.

The Mekong as a Messenger of War

Despite the violence, life along the river’s edge continued in uneasy quiet. In his village, the author describes watching the sun set over the Mekong, its surface eerily still and devoid of fishing boats. But the silence was deceptive — the river carried distant echoes of war: explosions, artillery, and the sounds of fierce fighting along the border.

In this way, the Mekong became more than a geographic feature — it served as a silent messenger and unwitting sentinel, alerting villagers to the advancing danger of conflict spreading from one place to another.

Soldiers on the Frontlines

On 11 December 2025, Pech Vai — a boatman affiliated with the Stung Treng Documentation Centre — confirmed that his 21-year-old son Li Chea-Linh had been deployed to defend the border. Chea-Linh was sent to strategic positions at Trapaeng Prasat and was expected to take part in fighting at Chok Chey, O Beichoan, Boeng Trakuon, and Prey Chan. His commitment and the resilience shown by his comrades have become symbols of resolve for many Cambodians.

Sacrifice and Ongoing Threats

The following day, the community learned of the death of police officer Chhorn Lundy from Border Police Battalion No. 701. Lundy fell in action at Mum Bei in Preah Vihear province while defending Cambodia’s territorial integrity — a grim reminder of the human cost of war, even as his courage was honored.

Meanwhile, Thai reconnaissance drones were reported operating over Preah Rumkel commune in Stung Treng. Local authorities also uncovered a Thai spy with detailed military maps, underscoring mounting tensions and security concerns along the border.

Evacuations and Civilian Preparations

Between 13 and 15 December 2025, Thai military actions — including intensified F-16 bombings — reached into the province of Siem Reap, prompting villagers to prepare for emergency evacuations. Residents packed clothing, essential supplies, and provisions, with some planning to relocate temporarily to neighboring Laos and others following guidance from Cambodian authorities.

Hope in the Sound of Christmas Bells

Amid the turmoil, the symbolism of the Mekong — and of Christmas bells ringing in the distance — became a source of solace and reflection. For many Cambodians, these sounds represent hope for a better world and a prayer for peace in a nation once again confronted with the specter of war.

truthlyda.s@dccam.org

Photo by Sreng Lyda