The South Sudanese government has ordered civilians to evacuate northern areas due to military clashes with an armed group following a recent airstrike. This conflict threatens the 2018 peace agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar, and escalates tensions within the region.
On Monday, the government of South Sudan issued a directive for civilians to evacuate a northern region following an airstrike aimed at an armed group accused of taking control of a military base and attacking a U.N. helicopter. The conflict in this area jeopardizes the 2018 peace agreement established between President Salva Kiir and his rival-turned-vice president, Riek Machar, which had previously ended a devastating civil war that claimed over 400,000 lives.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth indicated to reporters that civilians present in military zones who refuse to vacate will face consequences. He confirmed the airstrike conducted by the army in Nasir County on Sunday night and projected the continuation of these military operations.
Local reports suggest that the recent airstrike resulted in the death of more than a dozen civilians, although the army did not acknowledge this loss. Government forces have been engaged in conflict with the White Army, an armed group believed to be associated with Machar.
Tensions have escalated recently, with President Kiir infuriating Machar’s faction by dismissing officials who were perceived as loyal to him. Machar expressed concern that ongoing unilateral actions threaten the integrity of the 2018 peace accord. Earlier this month, government troops also surrounded Machar’s residence in Juba and arrested several of his supporters after the White Army’s offensive in Nasir County.
In summary, the South Sudanese government’s order for civilians to evacuate a northern area amidst escalating military operations highlights the fragile state of peace following the 2018 agreement. With ongoing conflicts involving the White Army and the dismissal of Machar loyalists, tensions remain high, potentially jeopardizing efforts to maintain stability in the region.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
