Phnom penh: H.E. Heng Ratana, Director General of the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), announced that an assessment of Preah Vihear Temple has uncovered extensive damage resulting from aerial bombardment and attacks on the World Heritage site.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Heng Ratana shared on social media that UNESCO-ICOMOS released an assessment report detailing the severe destruction inflicted on Preah Vihear Temple, a revered heritage site of the Khmer ancestors. The assessment highlighted the magnitude of damage, marking it as the most significant destruction ever recorded at the site.

CMAC's efforts included comprehensive surveys and assessments of explosive remnants of war (ERW) at Preah Vihear Temple. The findings revealed that Thai military forces reportedly conducted aerial bombings and targeted 501 locations on the temple structures, resulting in damage to over 560 sites.

H.E. Heng Ratana noted that the attacks on Preah Vihear Temple were executed with clear strategic planning and coordination, indicating a deliberate intent to destroy the historic site. He emphasized the temple's significance as a rare and vital heritage site, holding immense ancestral value for the Khmer people.

Expressing hope for justice, H.E. Heng Ratana called for accountability and urged that those responsible for the destruction face consequences under international law. The complete assessment report can be accessed on the UNESCO World Heritage Centre website.