UN Helicopter Attack in South Sudan Leaves One Dead Amid Escalating Conflict
A U.N. helicopter in South Sudan was attacked during a troop evacuation, killing a crew member and soldiers including a general. UNMISS condemned the attack, calling it potentially a war crime. The situation is complicated by ongoing political tensions and arrests of Machar’s allies, raising concerns for peace.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was targeted while attempting to evacuate South Sudanese troops in Nasir, resulting in the fatalities of a crew member and several soldiers, including a general. The U.N. mission disclosed that this incident followed intense clashes between the national forces and the White Army militia, which is associated with First Vice President Riek Machar’s faction.
UNMISS Chief Nicholas Haysom condemned the assault, characterizing it as “utterly abhorrent” and indicating that it could qualify as a war crime under international law. He expressed regret over the loss of lives during the evacuation attempt, especially given the assurances of safe passage that had been promised. UNMISS is advocating for an investigation to hold accountable those responsible for the attack.
Efforts to reach the government’s spokesperson, Information Minister Michael Makuei, were unsuccessful. However, President Salva Kiir’s office indicated that he would address the nation later that day. Meanwhile, tensions elevated as Machar’s spokesperson reported the arrest of prominent officials aligned with him, including the petroleum and peacebuilding ministers, sparking concerns regarding the stability of the peace process in the region.
The White Army, primarily composed of the Nuer ethnic group, had previously collaborated with Machar’s forces in the civil conflict from 2013 to 2018 against the Dinka troops who support Kiir. Conflicting statements persist regarding the involvement of Machar’s party in the recent hostilities, with government comments on the detentions remaining notably absent.
In summary, the attack on the U.N. helicopter in South Sudan underscores the volatile situation in the region, exacerbated by recent military clashes and political tensions between factions loyal to President Kiir and First Vice President Machar. The U.N. has called for accountability regarding this incident, while the broader implications for peace and security in South Sudan remain uncertain amidst arrest of key political figures.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
