A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during a rescue mission, leading to one crew member’s death and the injury of two others. President Salva Kiir condemned the action and called for peace, while tensions between his and Machar’s forces escalate, threatening the fragile 2018 power-sharing agreement. International diplomats urged comprehensive investigations and adherence to ceasefire terms to prevent further violence.
In light of a recent attack on a United Nations helicopter in South Sudan, President Salva Kiir called for calm and reaffirmed his commitment to peace, stating, “our country will not go back to war.” This incident took place during a rescue mission when the helicopter came under fire, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. The targeted rescue aimed to extract members of the South Sudanese army from a conflict area.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that the attack may classify as a war crime, following the loss of a South Sudanese army general and other officers during the failed mission. Tensions have escalated lately due to clashes between forces loyal to Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar in the Upper Nile State. Kiir urged citizens to maintain peace and expressed that his administration would manage the crisis.
Kiir’s comments come amidst accusations from his allies against Machar’s forces, suggesting they are inciting unrest in Nasir County jointly with the White Army, a group composed of Nuer youths. Following this, Machar’s office condemned the attack on UN personnel as a “barbaric act”, stressing that restoring peace in the region is crucial.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, stating it should be investigated for accountability. Furthermore, the U.N. Secretary-General’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, called for a thorough investigation into the incident, underscoring the need to hold offenders accountable.
In light of recent developments, including the overrun of a government garrison by rebels, Kiir’s government has arrested several affiliates of Machar, including key ministers. UNMISS stated that its ongoing efforts in the region aim to mitigate violence and civilian displacement caused by the ongoing clashes.
Warnings from regional and international diplomats indicate that the recent events jeopardize the 2018 peace agreement that concluded South Sudan’s civil war, which claimed approximately 400,000 lives. There is a growing concern that escalating conflict might lead to full-scale war, with calls for Juba leaders to prioritize dialogue and maintain peace. Dr. Alan Boswell from the International Crisis Group cautioned that South Sudan could rapidly devolve into ethnic violence unless the situation is promptly managed.
Moreover, recent political actions by Kiir, perceived as attempts to strengthen his position against Machar, have contributed to the heightened tensions. Kiir’s dismissal of two vice presidents and a governor without prior discussions has intensified fears of increased hostilities. Observers urge involved parties to commit to ceasefire agreements to preserve peace and prevent further violence.
The attack on the UN helicopter highlights the volatile situation in South Sudan, threatening the fragile peace resulting from the 2018 agreement. President Kiir’s insistence on avoiding conflict and calls for calm from both the government and Machar’s side are essential for preventing further violence. The recent escalations require continuous monitoring and diplomatic efforts to maintain peace, as fears of ethnic conflict loom. International pressure remains crucial to ensure accountability and uphold the commitments of the peace accord.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
