A UN helicopter assisting in a humanitarian evacuation in South Sudan was attacked, resulting in fatalities among crew members and SSPDF personnel. UNMISS’s Nicholas Haysom condemned the incident, calling for an investigation and dialogue to prevent further violence. The attack raises concerns over South Sudan’s ongoing political tensions and its peace process.
A United Nations helicopter conducting a humanitarian evacuation in Nasir, Upper Nile State, was targeted in a violent attack today, resulting in the death of one crew member and severe injuries to two others. Additionally, several personnel from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), including a General undergoing evacuation, also perished. The helicopter, managed by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), was deployed to assist in de-escalating tensions following clashes between the SSPDF and armed youth groups.
In light of the attack, Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, condemned the act as “abhorrent” and a potential war crime. He expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased crew member and voiced his regret over the deaths of those being evacuated, particularly after assurances of safe passage had been provided. Haysom urged for a thorough investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the assault.
UNMISS reiterated its calls for all involved parties to halt any further violence, stressing the need for South Sudan’s leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent the situation from worsening. The attack has occurred during a period of increased political and military tensions in South Sudan, with the conflict in Nasir becoming particularly volatile due to recent clashes.
The escalation has brought allegations suggesting covert support from the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) towards the White Army, a group of Nuer youth fighters. Consequently, the South Sudanese government has detained Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, SPLA-IO’s Chief of Staff, and Minister of Petroleum Puot Kang amid these tensions.
In response to the crisis, Kenyan President William Ruto has emerged as a mediator, engaging with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar to promote dialogue. Ruto emphasized the importance of communication to foster peace and stabilize South Sudan under the IGAD’s Strategic Framework. The attack on the UNMISS helicopter is likely to complicate efforts to maintain peace and raises doubts regarding the commitment of various factions to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights a devastating escalation in violence amidst ongoing political strife. The loss of life, including that of UN personnel and SSPDF troops, underscores the urgent need for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to restore peace. As diplomatic efforts unfold, the incident threatens to unravel the fragile peace process and emphasizes the critical role of international engagement in mitigating the conflict’s impact.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
