A U.N. helicopter was shot down in Nasir, South Sudan, while attempting to evacuate soldiers, resulting in one crew member’s death and several soldiers, including a general. U.N. officials condemned the act as potentially a war crime, amid rising tensions linked to arrests of military officials by security forces.
In Nasir, South Sudan, a United Nations helicopter engaged in an evacuation mission was targeted by gunfire, leading to the death of a crew member and several soldiers, including a general. The U.N. mission confirmed that the airlift was initiated in response to violent clashes between national forces and the White Army militia, a group linked to First Vice President Riek Machar’s opposition.
UNMISS leader, Nicholas Haysom, condemned the attack, stating it “is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He expressed sorrow for the loss of lives during the extraction mission, especially given the received assurances of safe passage. Haysom called for a thorough investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.
While attempts to reach the government’s spokesperson for comment proved futile, President Salva Kiir’s office indicated he would address the nation on the day of the incident. The White Army, largely composed of the Nuer ethnic group, had previously fought alongside Machar’s forces during the civil war from 2013 to 2018, countering the Dinka troops loyal to Kiir.
This week, Machar’s party reported that several senior officials, including the petroleum and peacebuilding ministers, were arrested by government security forces, inciting concerns over the stability of the ongoing peace process. The government is yet to provide a statement regarding these detentions, and Machar’s party has denied any involvement in the recent violence in Nasir.
In summary, the attack on the U.N. helicopter represents a grave escalation in South Sudan’s ongoing conflict, as it led to casualties among both the U.N. crew and soldiers. The subsequent condemnation from UNMISS highlights the serious implications of such violence under international law, while the political tensions following the arrests of senior officials threaten the fragile peace in the country.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
