A UN helicopter attack in South Sudan resulted in one crew member’s death and several soldiers injured. The UN condemned the assault, citing it as potentially a war crime. The attack underscores the fragile peace and escalating tensions, particularly involving the White Army militia and political dynamics surrounding President Kiir and Riek Machar.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was targeted in an attack in South Sudan, resulting in the death of one crew member and multiple South Sudanese soldiers. The incident occurred while the helicopter was attempting to evacuate troops amid fierce fighting between South Sudanese forces and the White Army militia near the town of Nasir, a group associated with First Vice President Riek Machar.
The UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) condemned this act, labeling it as “utterly abhorrent” and suggesting that it may constitute a war crime. Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, expressed sorrow over the fatalities and called for a thorough investigation into the assault’s perpetrators. It is particularly troubling given that the UN had received prior guarantees of safe passage.
The White Army, primarily composed of members from the Nuer ethnic group, previously aligned with Machar’s forces during the civil conflict from 2013 to 2018. This militia has been implicated in heightening tensions during a time when peace remains fragile in the region.
Simultaneously, President Salva Kiir’s government is experiencing mounting pressure, particularly as Machar’s party has denied any involvement in the recent fighting in Nasir. President Kiir is scheduled to provide a public address later today concerning the situation.
This attack highlights the precarious security conditions in South Sudan as the peace process confronts escalating challenges. Recent detentions of senior officials linked to Machar’s party have also contributed to the prevailing tension in the country.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan illustrates the ongoing instability in the region and casts a shadow over the fragile peace process. With the involvement of the White Army militia and political tensions escalating, the situation remains highly precarious. The universal condemnation from UN officials emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and a re-evaluation of security assurances in the area.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
