Fatal Attack on UN Helicopter in South Sudan Raises Alarms Over Peace Process
A U.N. helicopter attack in South Sudan resulted in the deaths of a general and approximately 27 soldiers. The incident threatens the fragile peace process and was condemned by the U.N. as potentially a war crime. Rising tensions from recent arrests of officials linked to the First Vice President, Riek Machar, are jeopardizing stability in the region.
A tragic incident occurred in South Sudan when a United Nations helicopter attempting to evacuate troops from Nasir was attacked, resulting in the deaths of a general and numerous soldiers. This incident poses a significant threat to the fragile peace process currently in place, as indicated by the United Nations, which condemned the act as “utterly abhorrent” and potentially a war crime, as reported by News.Az.
The helicopter was part of a mission to airlift soldiers amidst heavy clashes between the South Sudanese national forces and the White Army militia. The White Army is reportedly linked to forces supporting Riek Machar, the First Vice President and rival to President Salva Kiir. Following the tragic event, President Kiir confirmed via national address the loss of General Majur Dak and stated that assurances had been given that the general would be safe.
Information Minister Michael Makuei reported that an estimated 27 troops were killed during the incident, alongside a member of the U.N. crew. There is uncertainty regarding whether the helicopter was hit while airborne or on the ground during the assault. Machar’s spokesperson has declined to comment, while Machar’s party previously denied any involvement in the recent conflict.
The head of the U.N. Mission in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom, called the attack shocking and insisted that an investigation be carried out to identify and hold responsible parties accountable for this act. Assurance of safe passage had been communicated to the U.N. prior to the evacuation attempt, highlighting the breach of trust involved in this attack.
Recent tensions in South Sudan intensified following the arrest of several senior officials associated with Machar’s faction, raising concerns over the stability of the 2018 peace agreement that helped end a devastating civil war. The detentions, which have not been publicly addressed by the government, could threaten the fragile coalition government.
President Kiir emphasized the need to avoid reverting to war, yet analysts caution that escalating tensions could ignite further conflict. The U.N. has urged all involved parties to cease violence and seek resolution through dialogue to prevent a deterioration of the security situation in Nasir and the broader region. Since the 2018 peace treaty, South Sudan has experienced relative peace, but inter-community clashes continue to pose ongoing challenges.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan has resulted in the deaths of a general and numerous soldiers, significantly threatening the country’s fragile peace process. The U.N. has condemned the incident as potentially a war crime and has called for an investigation. Increasing tensions, fueled by arrests of key officials, also pose serious risks to stability. Continuous dialogue and intervention from leaders are critical to prevent further deterioration of the security situation in South Sudan.
Original Source: news.az
