Thai Rescuers Begin Perilous Operation to Free Trapped Soccer Team

Authorities concluded now is the optimal time to begin the rescue before monsoon rains intensify

MAE SAI, Thailand—Rescue divers began a dangerous mission to bring out 12 members of a youth soccer team and their coach from a flooded cave in northern Thailand where they have been trapped for more than two weeks, the official in charge of the operation said.

On Sunday, Governor Narongsak Osottanakorn said two divers would accompany each of the boys as they make the precarious journey from the rear of the six-mile-long cave complex. The journey will likely take several hours and involve the use of scuba-diving equipment...