A U.N. helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during an evacuation mission, leading to the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. The incident showcases increased violence in the region amid conflict between government forces and an armed group linked to Vice President Riek Machar, jeopardizing the fragile peace agreement between Machar and President Salva Kiir. Calls for adherence to the peace deal and cooperation are intensifying as political tensions rise.
A United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan on Friday, resulting in one crew member’s death and two others injured during an evacuation mission. This incident highlights increasing violence amidst ongoing clashes between government forces and the White Army, a group reportedly allied with Vice President Riek Machar, compromising a fragile peace agreement. The U.N. mission stated the helicopter came under fire while it attempted to evacuate government troops from the Nasir area in Upper Nile state.
According to President Salva Kiir, the attack also claimed the lives of several soldiers, including their commanding officer, Gen. Majur Dak. In response, Kiir urged the public to remain calm, assuring that his government is committed to resolving the crisis and maintaining peace. In recent days, violent confrontations have intensified in Nasir between government troops and the White Army, which recently overran a military garrison, leaving government soldiers stranded.
The International community, including UNMISS, is concerned about the escalating conflict, which poses a significant threat to the 2018 peace deal between Kiir and Machar that aimed to end years of civil strife. The agreement has faced numerous hurdles, including Machar’s criticism of Kiir’s government for undermining the peace process through unilateral decisions.
Moreover, political tensions are exacerbated by recent events in Juba where Machar’s residence was surrounded by government troops, leading to the arrest of his allies. The U.N. has called for all parties to refrain from violence and urged leaders to collaboratively address the escalating tensions.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with conflict, attributed primarily to ethnic divisions escalating into civil war. The pressures from the U.S. and other countries for timely implementation of reforms and preparations for the postponed presidential elections are mounting, although 2026 is the now slated date for elections.
The attack on the U.N. helicopter in South Sudan symbolizes the escalating violence that threatens the fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The international community remains on alert as political tensions rise amidst government actions against Machar’s faction. Continued calls for peace and cooperation are critical to stabilizing a nation beset by civil strife since its independence. Both leaders face increased pressure to adhere to the 2018 peace deal and ensure the planned elections occur by 2026.
Original Source: torontosun.com
