Airstrike in South Sudan’s Nasir Kills at Least 19 Amid Rising Tensions
An airstrike by South Sudan’s airforce killed at least 19 people in Nasir. This event follows recent conflicts with the White Army militia. Accusations of collaboration between the White Army and the faction of First Vice President Riek Machar were made. Local reports describe severe injuries and fatalities. Medical agencies confirm multiple casualties, and Uganda’s military action adds to the complicated situation.
On March 17, 2025, it was reported that an airstrike by South Sudan’s airforce resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals in Nasir, located in the eastern region of the country. This incident followed the withdrawal of government forces from the area amidst ongoing conflict with the White Army, an ethnic militia comprised primarily of armed Nuer youths.
The violent confrontations in Nasir, near the Ethiopian border, revived concerns regarding the resurgence of civil war conditions akin to the 2013-2018 conflict that caused extensive casualties. The South Sudanese government accused the faction associated with First Vice President Riek Machar of colluding with the White Army, although Machar’s party has refuted these claims.
Previous armed clashes, particularly on March 7, led to the death of a South Sudanese general and 26 other soldiers when a UN helicopter was attacked while attempting an evacuation from Nasir. Information Minister Michael Makuei confirmed during a news conference that the airforce had engaged in bombings of the area.
Accounts from local residents, such as community leader Kang Wan, reported that the airstrike occurred late on Sunday night, resulting in 15 immediate fatalities, with others succumbing to injuries later. Reports indicated that 16 bodies were visible, with descriptions of severe burns impacting the deceased.
Medical relief organization Médecins Sans Frontières stated that their hospital in nearby Ulang treated three individuals with injuries from the airstrike, with two of them declared dead upon arrival due to critical burns. County Commissioner James Gatluak Lew suggested that the recent bombing was likely an act of retaliation by the armed forces following the helicopter attack.
In related developments, Uganda acknowledged deploying special forces in Juba to assist in securing the capital, although the South Sudanese government had previously denied their presence. Minister Makuei later clarified that certain Ugandan military units were indeed present to provide support to the national army if needed.
The tragic airstrike in Nasir highlights the escalating violence in South Sudan, underscoring the fragile security situation in the region following recent ethnic conflicts. The deaths of civilians during this operation raises serious concerns about accountability and the risks of renewed conflict. Amidst these tensions, the involvement of external forces like Uganda further complicates the geopolitical dynamics at play in South Sudan.
Original Source: bdnews24.com
