A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan while evacuating wounded soldiers, killing one crew member and injuring two. The incident highlights escalating tensions amid fears of renewed civil conflict. President Kiir’s government faces criticism for the ongoing crisis, with a key power-sharing agreement at risk of collapse.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan while on a rescue mission, resulting in one crew member’s death and injuries to two others. This incident occurred during attempts to evacuate wounded South Sudanese soldiers in Upper Nile State. The helicopter was reportedly targeted by gunmen amidst rising political tensions that threaten a return to civil war in the region.
The UN stated that the armed group, identified as the White Army, began firing as soldiers approached the helicopter for evacuation. The attack has occurred following days of escalating political turmoil in South Sudan, raising concerns among civilians and international observers about potential renewed conflict in this young nation.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has called for calm, emphasizing that the government will manage the crisis. He stated, “Let no one take law into their hands,” assuring the public that his administration is prepared to address the situation responsibly. Nonetheless, many critics argue that both Kiir and rival political leaders are culpable for the ongoing crisis.
The fragile power-sharing agreement established in 2018 between Kiir and Riek Machar is at risk, as recent clashes between their respective forces have intensified. South Sudan’s information minister reported that the helicopter attack led to 27 soldier fatalities, although this figure remains unverified.
As the situation deteriorates, the potential for an all-out civil war looms over South Sudan, prompting urgent calls for leadership accountability and intervention to prevent further violence.
The attack on the UN helicopter underscores the escalating violence and political instability in South Sudan. With the power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar under threat, the risk of a return to civil war remains high. Despite appeals for calm, pressures from both military factions and political leaders contribute to the ongoing crisis. Immediate international attention and action may be necessary to mitigate the turmoil in this fragile nation.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
