A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, with a crew member killed and others injured. Kiir emphasizes peace, condemning the unrest, while Machar’s office denounces the attack. UNMISS and international bodies call for accountability and further peacekeeping efforts in the region.
A United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, aggravating rising tensions in the nation. President Salva Kiir emphasized that South Sudan cannot afford to revert to conflict. The tensions are primarily due to disagreements regarding a power-sharing arrangement with First Vice President Riek Machar, leading to clashes in Upper Nile State.
According to the U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the helicopter was targeted while attempting to extract South Sudanese army members from a conflict area, resulting in one death and two serious injuries among the crew. UNMISS confirmed that several officers, including a general, were killed during this operation.
President Kiir reiterated the government’s commitment to peace, insisting citizens should not panic and let the law take its course. In contrast, Riek Machar’s office condemned the helicopter attack, labeling it a “barbaric act” and reaffirming their dedication to restoring peace through continued dialogue with involved parties.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, described the assault on UN personnel as potentially constituting a war crime. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric called for a thorough investigation into the incident and accountability for those responsible. The South Sudanese government has detained several officials, including the Petroleum Minister and Deputy Army Chief, due to increasing tensions stemming from the conflict.
The attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the ongoing tensions between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar, undermining the peace established after the 2018 civil war. The incident has drawn international condemnation, with calls for accountability and renewed efforts to stabilize the region. Continued engagements between conflicting parties remain crucial to preventing further violence.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
