Myanmar military heavily bombs KNLA camps for 3 consecutive days with fighter jets, artillery shells continue to land in Thailand

Yangon, July 11 Fighting has been intensifying between the Myanmar military and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) near the Thai-Myanmar border, with the Myanmar military using YAK-130 fighter jets and Y-12 aircraft to heavily bomb KNLA camps for three consecutive days, according to Thai media. The attacks targeted KNLA units near Min Laphant village in Myawaddy Township, Karen State, and are occurring in an area opposite Maha Wan village in Mae Sot District, Thailand. According to Thai reports, the Myanmar military used more powerful 500-pound bombs than before, and the military situation temporarily stabilized after the airstrikes. Thai authorities estimate that there may be casualties on the KNLA side, but are still investigating the details. It is also reported that many civilian homes on the Myanmar side were damaged by the airstrikes. As a result of the fighting, some artillery shells and explosives landed within villages No. 4 and No. 9 of the Maha Wan village group in Tak Province, Thailand, the Thai-Myanmar Border Emergency Coordination Center confirmed. Thai military and bomb disposal units have safely cleared and destroyed the fallen bombs and shells, and the military, regional administrative bodies, and community leaders have conducted safety awareness campaigns for local residents. Thai authorities are closely monitoring the border situation, have increased patrols, and are prepared to respond to emergencies, according to a statement. In addition, the Thai Border Guard Force No. 35, border police, and the Thai army have also prepared troops, ammunition, and military support equipment, and are increasing security patrols along the border. The Royal Thai Air Force has also stated that it is on standby with fighter jets for patrol flights to respond immediately if aircraft from Myanmar violate Thai airspace. Thai security authorities have sent a protest letter to Myanmar through the Thai-Myanmar Regional Border Committee (TBC), urging special caution in the use of weapons near the border. Furthermore, Thai security forces will strictly adhere to the Rules of Engagement (ROE) and will respond as necessary if Thailand's sovereignty and the lives and property of its people are affected, according to a statement. Thai authorities have urged residents in the border area to report any suspicious bombs, ammunition, or military equipment to the relevant security forces as soon as possible without touching them. In addition, Thailand does not support any side in the ongoing armed conflict in Myanmar, nor will it allow any group to use Thai territory for military gain. The public and media are urged to disseminate only verified information.