A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, killing a crew member during a rescue mission. The event has been labeled a potential war crime amidst escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Following recent unrest in Upper Nile State and political maneuvers, regional diplomats stress the need for local leaders to prioritize peace and stability.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during a rescue operation, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. This incident has been characterized as a potential war crime amid ongoing tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Their fragile power-sharing agreement has recently been jeopardized by confrontations among their respective forces in Upper Nile State.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that the helicopter was targeting South Sudanese army personnel in distress when it was targeted. Tragically, both a general and several officers from the South Sudanese army were killed during this unsuccessful extraction attempt. Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, condemned the act as “utterly abhorrent,” asserting it may breach international law.
The backdrop of this event stems from political strife beginning with the conclusion of South Sudan’s five-year civil war in 2018, formalized through a power-sharing pact between Kiir and Machar. Tensions have escalated, particularly after allegations that Machar’s forces collaborated with local rebels, known as the White Army, to stir unrest in Nasir County.
In response to a recent attack on a government garrison by these rebels, Kiir’s administration has detained several allies of Machar, including notable ministers. Meanwhile, UNMISS highlighted the need for intervention in Nasir County due to rising casualties and civilian displacements stemming from violence.
Diplomatic entities, including those from the United States and European Union, have urged South Sudanese leaders to prioritize peace and regional stability. They called for adherence to ceasefire commitments and respect for the integrity of the 2018 peace agreement, warning that recent political maneuvers, including Kiir’s dismissals of vice-presidents without consensus, threaten any strides made toward stability.
In summary, the tragic attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan signifies escalating violence linked to political rivalries amidst a delicate peace framework. The incident may constitute a war crime and draws attention to the tumultuous relationship between Kiir and Machar. Regional and international actors are imploring a return to dialogue and adherence to existing peace accords to prevent further deterioration of the situation in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
