UN Helicopter Attack in South Sudan: A Devastating Incident Amid Ongoing Violence
A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during an evacuation mission, leading to the death of one crew member and numerous casualties among South Sudanese soldiers. UNMISS condemned the attack as abhorrent, urging accountability and dialogue to resolve ongoing tensions. This incident highlights the instability in Upper Nile State and the need for adherence to peace agreements.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was targeted while on an evacuation mission for wounded South Sudanese soldiers, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. Reports indicated that at least two dozen South Sudanese military personnel, including an injured general, lost their lives when the helicopter was attacked in Nasir, Upper Nile State. Fortunately, the helicopter was able to land safely after the incident.
The helicopter evacuation was conducted at the request of officials who signed the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement aimed at ending the civil war in South Sudan. This operation was part of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) efforts to mitigate violence in Nasir and reduce political tensions following recent clashes between government troops and armed youth. These conflicts have resulted in significant casualties and widespread civilian displacement.
Nicholas Haysom, the Head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, calling it “utterly abhorrent” and suggesting it could amount to a war crime under international law. He expressed profound sorrow for the loss of UN personnel and the evacuees, noting that assurances for safe passage had been given prior to the attack. Haysom emphasized the necessity for an investigation to identify and hold those responsible accountable.
In light of the ongoing violence, UNMISS urged all parties involved to cease hostilities and for political leaders to engage in dialogue to alleviate rising tensions. The mission highlighted the importance of adhering to the ceasefire agreement and maintaining the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in pursuit of peace and security in the region.
This assault occurs against a backdrop of persistent instability in Upper Nile State, marked by months of violence and insecurity. The region has seen thousands displaced, with humanitarian access hindered by challenging terrain and ongoing armed conflict. Violent confrontations on February 14th between the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) and armed youth escalated, resulting in heavy casualties among both civilians and combatants, and an UNMISS patrol also came under attack, injuring a peacekeeper.
The recent attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan signifies a troubling escalation in violence and highlights the ongoing instability in Upper Nile State. The condemnation from UNMISS and the call for accountability reflect the urgent need for peace and adherence to ceasefire agreements by all involved parties. As South Sudan grapples with sustained armed conflict, the commitment to dialogue and diplomatic resolution remains crucial for achieving lasting stability in the region.
Original Source: news.un.org
