A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during a rescue mission, killing a crew member and injuring two. This incident may constitute a war crime, as tensions between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar have escalated, threatening a 2018 peace agreement. International diplomats urge adherence to ceasefire and peaceful dialogue to prioritize the interests of the South Sudanese people.
A United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan on Friday during an operation to rescue soldiers, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. This incident has been characterized as a potential war crime amid escalating conflicts that threaten a fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that the helicopter came under fire while trying to extract South Sudanese army personnel, resulting in multiple casualties, including a South Sudanese general.
Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, decried the assault, stating, “The attack on UNMISS personnel is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He expressed sorrow concerning the deaths of the soldiers they intended to rescue. South Sudan, which gained independence as the world’s youngest nation, had previously concluded a civil war in 2018 through a power-sharing agreement, yet recent tensions between Kiir’s and Machar’s factions jeopardize this peace.
Amid the conflict in Upper Nile State, escalating clashes have led to increased violence. A recent report indicated that a government garrison was overtaken by rebels, prompting the South Sudanese government to arrest several individuals associated with Machar, including key ministers. In efforts to mitigate violence and civilian displacement in Nasir County, UNMISS emphasized the need for negotiation and ceasefire adherence to preserve peace.
Notably, regional and Western diplomats have alerted that ongoing tumult could undermine the 2018 peace agreement, which aimed to resolve a civil war resulting in 400,000 fatalities. In a joint statement, embassies from the United States, Britain, and the European Union urged South Sudanese leaders to prioritize the welfare of the populace and recommit to dialogue and understanding.
The recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the dangers faced by peacekeepers amidst deteriorating security conditions. As factions continue to clash, the integrity of the 2018 peace agreement hangs in the balance. Calls for dialogue and adherence to ceasefire obligations are crucial as the nation grapples with turmoil and seeks to avoid further violence and humanitarian crises.
Original Source: 24newshd.tv
