U.N. Helicopter Assault in South Sudan Results in Fatalities and Escalating Tensions
A U.N. helicopter in South Sudan was attacked while attempting to evacuate General Majur Dak and soldiers, leading to multiple fatalities. The U.N. condemned the act, labeling it a potential war crime. Increasing tensions from military detentions and violent clashes threaten the fragile peace established in 2018, prompting calls for dialogue and intervention to prevent further violence.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan while attempting to evacuate a South Sudanese general and numerous soldiers, resulting in fatalities, including that of General Majur Dak. The incident occurred in the northern town of Nasir amid heavy clashes between national forces and the White Army militia, which the government has linked to opposition forces led by First Vice President Riek Machar.
The United Nations condemned the attack, labeling it as “utterly abhorrent” and a potential war crime. The U.N. crew had been assured of safe passage by Machar’s group prior to launching the evacuation mission. The South Sudanese Information Minister Michael Makuei reported that approximately 27 troops perished in the attack, alongside a U.N. crew member.
Speculation remains regarding whether the helicopter was attacked in mid-flight or while it was on the ground. Spokespersons for Machar have refrained from commenting on the incident, although they have previously denied any involvement in the ongoing hostilities in Nasir. Nicholas Haysom, leader of the U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), emphasized the necessity of investigating the incident and holding the responsible parties accountable.
Recent tensions have been exacerbated by the arrest of key officials aligned with Machar, raising concerns over the stability of the peace agreement formed in 2018, which concluded a devastating civil war. Kiir publicly reaffirmed that the nation would not revert to war, but expert analysts warn of the risks of escalating violence leading to a renewed conflict.
The International community urges all involved parties to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve existing tensions and prevent further violence. Although South Sudan has technically been at peace since the 2018 accord, sporadic clashes frequently disrupt stability, highlighting the fragility of the current situation.
The attack on the U.N. helicopter in South Sudan underlines deepening tensions in the region and poses significant risks to the peace process that followed the civil war. With numerous fatalities reported, including military personnel and U.N. members, the international community’s call for accountability and peaceful negotiation is critical to stabilizing the situation. Continued political unrest and military detentions threaten to undermine the fragile peace, prompting urgent dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to ensure safety and solidarity among their people.
Original Source: news.az
