A UN helicopter attack in South Sudan killed a general and soldiers, jeopardizing the peace process between President Kiir and rival Machar. The UN termed the incident ‘utterly abhorrent’, raising concerns over possible war crimes. Growing tensions risk a full-blown conflict, demanding urgent action and dialogue from leaders.
An attack on a United Nations helicopter in Nasir, South Sudan, has resulted in the deaths of a South Sudanese general and approximately 27 soldiers, as confirmed by the government. This incident significantly threatens the fragile peace process between President Salva Kiir and his rival, First Vice President Riek Machar, amidst ongoing clashes involving allied forces in the region.
The UN described the assault as “utterly abhorrent”, highlighting its potential classification as a war crime. The helicopter was attempting to airlift military personnel amid intense fighting between the national forces and the White Army, a militia affiliated with Machar’s faction. Despite assurances from Machar regarding the general’s safety, the rescue mission was struck during its operation.
President Kiir called for calm among citizens, asserting that the government is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the country. “The government which I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast in the path of peace,” he stated in a national address.
The unrest in Nasir has prompted broader concerns over the fragile political situation, especially following the arrest of several senior officials linked to Machar. These detentions risk destabilizing the power-sharing agreement formed in 2018, which ended a longstanding civil war between rival factions.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN mission in South Sudan, called for an investigation into the incident, lamenting the deaths of individuals the UN aimed to evacuate under previously assured safe conditions.
As tension escalates, analysts warn of a potential descent into full-scale conflict. Concerns over ethnic violence are rising, with experts urging the UN to mobilize peacekeepers. The call for restraint and dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders is critical to prevent further deterioration of the security situation and to protect civilian lives.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan underscores the volatile political landscape as ongoing tensions threaten the peace achieved in 2018. Despite assurances of safety, the incident highlights the fragility of the power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar, necessitating urgent dialogue among leaders to prevent further violence. The international community remains vigilant as threats of ethnic conflict loom.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
