Over 500 Flee Myanmar to Thailand After KNLA Attack

More than 500 people, including civilians and Myanmar soldiers, fled into Thailand on Saturday after the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) attacked a military base in Kayin state. Myanmar soldiers, unable to hold their position even after calling for reinforcements, joined 467 civilians in seeking refuge, where they were disarmed and received humanitarian aid from Thai authorities. The KNLA, an ethnic armed group, reportedly received defections from some Myanmar troops during the incident, while others crossed into Thailand. Thai forces have increased border patrols specifically in Thailand's Tak province to prevent violations of sovereignty. This episode is part of intensified conflict in Myanmar since the 2021 military coup, involving clashes between the junta, ethnic groups, and pro-democracy forces. The United Nations estimates that about 81,000 Myanmar refugees or asylum seekers are now in Thailand.