
Thu Dec 25 01:26:44 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
On December 24, 2025, India expressed concern over the destruction of a Hindu deity statue amidst ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. The Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the disrespectful act hurts religious sentiments worldwide and urged both countries to resolve their border dispute through dialogue and diplomacy. Clashes between Thailand and Cambodia initially erupted in July 2025, followed by a ceasefire brokered by the U.S. President Donald Trump. However, the conflict resumed this month.
News Article:
India Condemns Destruction of Hindu Statue in Thai-Cambodian Conflict, Urges Dialogue
New Delhi, December 25, 2025 – India has voiced strong concern over the demolition of a Hindu deity statue amidst the ongoing military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. The statement, released by External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Wednesday, December 24th, emphasized the sensitivity of the act and its impact on religious sentiments globally.
“We have seen reports on the demolition of a statue of a Hindu religious deity…located in an area affected by the ongoing Thai-Cambodia border dispute,” stated Mr. Jaiswal. “Hindu and Buddhist deities are deeply revered and worshipped by people across the region, as part of our shared civilizational heritage.”
The spokesperson went on to say, “Notwithstanding territorial claims, such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world, and should not take place.”
India urged both Thailand and Cambodia to return to diplomatic solutions. “We once again urge the two sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy, to resume peace and avoid any further loss of lives, and damage to property and heritage,” said Mr. Jaiswal.
Border clashes between the two Southeast Asian nations initially broke out in July of 2025. A ceasefire, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, was established, but fighting resumed earlier this month. The escalating conflict and the destruction of cultural and religious artifacts are drawing increasing international attention.