Recently, at least 27 soldiers died in South Sudan due to clashes involving the UN and the national army. The attack on UN helicopters has been condemned, described as potentially constituting a war crime. The fighting between the armed forces and ethnic militias threatens fragile peace agreements, prompting President Kiir to urge calm amidst rising tensions.
Recent violence in South Sudan has escalated dramatically following an attack on United Nations helicopters attempting to evacuate national army members. The incident resulted in the death of at least one crew member and several South Sudanese troops, including an injured general. The UN condemned the attack, stating it could be classified as a war crime, highlighting the severe instability the country faces.
In a separate yet related event, President Salva Kiir reported the crash landing of a second helicopter that had managed to take off post-attack, claiming the lives of everyone onboard. Meanwhile, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) claimed that both helicopters safely landed in Malakal, creating confusion about the fate of the aircraft involved.
The ongoing conflict in the Upper Nile state poses significant risks to fragile peace agreements established in 2018 between Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar. Tensions have mounted, reminiscent of the violent clashes that erupted into a civil war in 2013. Understanding this context is crucial, as over 400,000 lives were lost, and millions were displaced during that conflict.
Current clashes primarily involve the South Sudanese armed forces and the White Army militia, an ethnic group allied with Machar. As fighting continues, UNMISS has been engaged in evacuations of wounded soldiers from conflict zones. Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, described the attack as “extremely abhorrent,” mourning the loss of a colleague and expressing regret over the deaths of those affected by the evacuation efforts.
President Kiir identified Gen. Majur Dak, the lead of stationed forces in Nasir, among the casualties. Additionally, the government has initiated arrests of individuals linked to Machar, raising fears of a potential return to full-scale war. In reaction to the unrest, Kiir has urged citizens to maintain calm, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to resolving the crisis without further violence. South Sudan, forming its independence from Sudan in 2011, remains the newest nation globally, grappling with ongoing instability and conflict.
The recent attack on UN helicopters in South Sudan underscores mounting tensions amid ongoing ethnic conflict, highlighting the precariousness of peace in the region. As the government struggles with rival factions, the potential for renewed violence remains a pressing concern. Continued international attention and support are essential in addressing the humanitarian and security crises facing South Sudan, as the situation evolves precariously.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
