South Sudan Evacuates Civilians Amid Renewed Conflict and Airstrikes

South Sudan’s government has ordered civilians to leave a northern region following an airstrike against an armed group. The conflict poses risks to a 2018 peace deal, leading to heightened tensions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Reports of civilian casualties have emerged amid ongoing clashes and political instability.

The South Sudanese government has instructed civilians to evacuate a northern region following an airstrike directed at an armed group, which is accused of attacking a military base and a United Nations helicopter. This request comes in light of ongoing tensions stemming from recent violence in Nasir County, significantly jeopardizing a peace agreement established in 2018 between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, which aimed to end a devastating civil war.

Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth emphasized that civilians remaining in military zones who refuse to comply will face repercussions. He acknowledged the airstrike on Nasir County carried out by the army and stated that such operations would persist. The local commissioner reported casualties among civilians, but the military has not verified these claims.

Clashes between government forces and the armed group known as the White Army have been reported, with allegations that it may have ties to Machar. Tensions increased after President Kiir removed several officials aligned with Machar’s faction, leading Machar to express concerns that these unilateral actions undermine the fragile peace agreement established in 2018. Furthermore, government forces have recently positioned themselves around Machar’s residence, contributing to escalated hostilities following the White Army’s seizure of the military base.

In summary, South Sudan’s government is urging civilians to evacuate northern areas as it intensifies military actions against the White Army. This situation underscores the fragility of the 2018 peace agreement, with increasing violence and political strife posing serious threats to stability. Continued military engagement and internal conflicts suggest a challenging path ahead for the nation.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com