The search for 12 boys and their soccer coach believed to be inside a flooded cave in northern Thailand continued on Friday, six days after they went missing. Several international teams have now arrived and more are on the way. After 7 days without contact, hopes of finding the boys alive are fading. CGTN's Tony Cheng has the story.

British cave diving experts return from an initial exploration of Tham Luang cave on Friday. Access has been limited in recent days after heavy rain.

And support for the Thai rescue teams also coming from US soldiers, bring vital skills and equipment.

They will be joined later on Friday by a team of cave diving experts from China as the World watches the rescue operation with baited breath.

Thailand's Prime minister also came to lend his support. There has been criticism that rescue efforts have been badly co-ordinated, and requests for overseas help came too late. But General Prayuth tried to bring unity to the teams, who's spirits have noticeably flagged in recent days.

PRAYUTH CHAN-OCHA THAI PRIME MINISTER "I think we will succeed. We will succeed because we have faith. Everyone should keep their heads cool, advising one another, helping one another, and talking to one another on things that are helpful. If there are any shortcomings, we have to tell the governor."

The pumps are briefly turned back on, clearing water that had pushed the search teams back for the last 3 days.

But several rescuers were electrocuted and they say they will not resume pumping today.

Above, police drones search the cliffs and thick foliage for access points that could open up to the cave system below. While below drills are attempting to bore through to release ground water the greatest obstacle to the relief effort

But for all their efforts, there are still no signs of life.

TONY CHENG THAILAND "It's now seven days since the boys disappeared, and all that has been found are some backpacks and shoes. Climbers are exploring these mountains as divers try to move through the caves with the help of experts from overseas and still their target remains elusive. Everyone here is vowing not to give up the search but at this stage, what they really need is a miracle and those have been in short supply. Tony Cheng, CGTN."