A U.N. helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, resulting in one death and several injuries as it attempted to rescue wounded soldiers. Political tensions in the region have heightened fears of renewed civil conflict as the power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Riek Machar faces serious challenges. President Kiir called for calm amid criticism of his leadership during the crisis.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked while attempting to rescue wounded South Sudanese soldiers in Upper Nile State. This incident resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. The UN reported that the helicopter was under assault as it was preparing for the evacuation, coinciding with a critical period of escalating tensions in the region.
The uprising follows a period of severe political instability in South Sudan, which has raised concerns among citizens and international observers about the country potentially spiraling into civil war once again. In response to the growing crisis, President Salva Kiir made a public appeal for calm, asserting the government’s commitment to maintaining order, stating, “Let no one take law into their hands.”
Critics, however, point fingers at President Kiir and his rival Riek Machar, blaming them for the present turmoil. The power-sharing agreement established in 2018 between the two leaders, which successfully ended years of civil war, is now facing severe challenges amid continuing clashes between their factions in Upper Nile State. Reports from the government indicated that 27 soldiers may have died during the helicopter attack, though this number remains unverified.
The recent attack on the U.N. helicopter highlights the precarious nature of the political situation in South Sudan. With a power-sharing agreement in jeopardy and rising violence, the country’s leaders face immense pressure to restore peace. President Kiir’s assurances may reflect intentions, but the escalating conflict poses significant risks for the nation’s stability as it nears the brink of renewed civil war.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
