A UN helicopter was attacked in Nasir, South Sudan, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to others, amidst escalating tensions in the region. Special Representative Nicholas Haysom condemned the act as a potential war crime and called for accountability. The conflict involves the SSPDF and armed youth, with ongoing diplomatic efforts by Kenyan President William Ruto to mediate dialogue.
On March 7, 2025, a United Nations helicopter involved in a humanitarian evacuation in Nasir, Upper Nile State, was attacked, leading to the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. This incident also resulted in casualties among the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), including an injured General who was being evacuated. The helicopter was dispatched to ease tensions following clashes between the SSPDF and armed youth groups, amidst ongoing violence causing civilian displacement in the area.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, labelled the attack “abhorrent”, expressing concern that it could qualify as a war crime under international law. He conveyed profound sorrow regarding the loss of life and stated, “We also regret the killing of those that we were attempting to extract, particularly when assurances of safe passage had been received.” Haysom called for an investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the attack.
The UN mission emphasized the need for all involved parties to refrain from violence, urging South Sudan’s leadership to engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation. This incident comes amid rising political and military tensions in South Sudan, particularly following clashes between the SSPDF and the White Army, a group of Nuer youth fighters.
The White Army’s activities have raised suspicions of support from the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). The South Sudanese government has since apprehended SPLA-IO’s Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, and Petroleum Minister, Puot Kang, due to their alleged involvement in the conflict.
In response to the escalating crisis, Kenyan President William Ruto has initiated diplomatic efforts to mediate talks between South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Ruto has encouraged both leaders to prioritize dialogue as a means to restore peace and stability in the country. He stated, “I implored both leaders to engage in dialogue towards fostering peace in the country even as the region works towards the stabilization of South Sudan under IGAD’s Strategic Framework.” The attack on the UN helicopter poses significant concerns regarding the future of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and the commitment of various factions to maintaining peace in South Sudan.
The violent attack on the UN helicopter reflects deeper tensions within South Sudan, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts between the SSPDF and opposing youth groups. Following the loss of life and instability, calls for investigation and dialogue are crucial to mitigating further violence and preserving the fragile peace. Diplomatic interventions by regional leaders, particularly from Kenya, are essential to foster dialogue among South Sudanese leadership to ensure stabilization and adherence to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
