An airstrike in Nasir, South Sudan, caused civilian casualties and damage amid rising tensions between forces loyal to President Kiir and those aligned with Vice President Machar. The attack, attributed to the SSPDF, has led to fears of renewed conflict, exacerbated by recent hostilities and the frail status of the 2018 peace agreement.
On Sunday evening, a military airstrike targeted Nasir, a town in Upper Nile State, South Sudan, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage, as reported by local officials and witnesses. Nasir County Commissioner Gatluak Lew Thiep indicated that multiple bombs were dropped on the town’s airstrip and nearby areas at approximately 11:40 PM, leading to extensive fires and unverified property destruction.
Gatluak mentioned that fatalities and injuries occurred but could not confirm their exact numbers, stating that victims were transported to hospitals for treatment. He attributed the attack to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), alleging it was a retaliation for prior skirmishes in the region. Additionally, he claimed that Longechuk County experienced bombing on the same day, although details on that incident are limited.
A video circulating on social media depicted flames consuming homes and vegetation in Nasir, corroborated by local armed youths’ commander, Tet Chuol Gatkuoth. He confirmed the bombing but noted that overall damage assessments were yet to be completed. Efforts to reach SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang for further comments were unsuccessful.
This assault comes amidst escalating tensions following several days of hostile engagements. Notably, Defence Minister Gen. Chol Thon Balok recently declared intentions to reclaim Nasir during a funeral for an SSPDF commander who died in a botched U.N. evacuation attempt on March 7. Since the White Army took the town on March 4, fears of renewed conflict between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar have increased.
The strategic border location of Nasir has made it a focal point for confrontation. Following the capture of an SSPDF base by the White Army, Kiir’s government has intensified its crackdown on Machar’s associates in Juba, further destabilizing the frail power-sharing agreement established under the 2018 peace deal. The situation illustrates the fragile nature of peace in South Sudan, as the shadow of their previous civil war looms large, marked by significant loss of life from 2013 to 2018.
The recent airstrike in Nasir underscores the escalating tensions between rival factions in South Sudan, particularly those aligned with President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The event has resulted in civilian casualties and damage, prompting fears of renewed violent conflict, particularly following recent military threats and prior incidents of violence. As the situation evolves, the underlying fragility of the peace agreements will remain a critical concern for both local and international observers.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
