U.N. Helicopter Attack in South Sudan Leaves Casualties and Rising Tensions
A U.N. helicopter in South Sudan was attacked during an evacuation, resulting in the death of a crew member and several soldiers, including a general. The incident, linked to clashes with the White Army militia, has drawn international condemnation and calls for accountability. Tensions rise as government officials allied with opposition leader Riek Machar are detained, threatening the fragile peace process.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter in South Sudan came under fire while attempting an evacuation in Nasir. The incident resulted in the tragic loss of a crew member and multiple soldiers, including a general, amidst ongoing clashes between national forces and the White Army militia. This militia is reportedly linked to opposition forces loyal to First Vice President Riek Machar, as stated by President Salva Kiir’s administration.
Nicholas Haysom, the head of the U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), condemned the attack, asserting, “The attack… is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He expressed regret over the casualties of those intended for evacuation and called for an immediate investigation to identify and hold the assailants accountable.
The situation has escalated tensions within South Sudan, with calls to the government for comments remaining unanswered. However, an announced national address by President Kiir was expected later that day. The White Army, primarily composed of individuals from the Nuer ethnic group, previously fought alongside Machar’s forces in the civil war that occurred from 2013 to 2018, opposing the Dinka troops loyal to Kiir.
Additionally, Machar’s spokesperson revealed that several senior officials allied with him, including the petroleum and peacebuilding ministers and the deputy army head, had been detained, heightening concerns over the already fragile peace efforts in the country. Despite these developments, the government has not provided statements regarding the detentions, and Machar’s party has denied participating in the recent violence in Nasir.
Amidst these turmoil events, Reuters reports that public anxieties are increasing regarding the stability of South Sudan’s peace process, marking a critical juncture in its ongoing internal conflicts.
The U.N. helicopter attack in South Sudan has resulted in tragic fatalities, highlighting the escalating violence in the region. With the involvement of military and political factions, the fragile peace process is once again under threat. The U.N. and other international bodies must respond effectively to this act of violence, ensuring accountability as South Sudan navigates its complex political landscape.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
