A South Sudanese general and many soldiers were killed in an attack on a UN helicopter. The UN described the incident as “utterly abhorrent” and a potential war crime, threatening the fragile peace process. President Kiir announced the deaths, emphasizing previous assurances from Machar regarding the safety of the operation. The mission of the UN has become critical in maintaining post-war stability in South Sudan.
In a tragic incident in South Sudan, a government general and numerous soldiers were killed when a United Nations helicopter was attacked while attempting to evacuate them from the town of Nasir. The UN condemned the assault, branding it “utterly abhorrent” and suggesting it could constitute a war crime, potentially undermining the already delicate peace process in the region.
The helicopter was part of a rescue operation following intense clashes between government forces and the White Army militia, which is reportedly associated with opposition leader Riek Machar. In a statement, President Salva Kiir revealed that he had received assurances of safety for General Majur Dak and his troops from Machar prior to the operation.
Information Minister Michael Makuei reported that approximately 27 soldiers were killed, along with a crew member from the UN. The circumstances surrounding the attack, including whether the helicopter was targeted mid-air or while grounded, remain unclear. Machar’s spokesperson opted not to comment on the attack, while his party has previously denied their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Nasir.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), emphasized the gravity of the incident, calling for a thorough investigation to hold the responsible parties accountable for the attack. It was also reported that various senior military officials linked to Machar have been detained, raising concerns about the stability of the 2018 peace agreement that had ended a protracted civil war.
The White Army, primarily consisting of armed youths from the Nuer ethnic group, previously fought alongside Machar’s forces during the 2013-2018 civil war against the predominantly Dinka troops loyal to Kiir. While President Kiir assured that the nation would not revert to war, experts have indicated that escalating tensions could potentially lead to renewed conflict.
Consequently, the UN has urged all parties involved to cease hostilities and called for leaders to engage in dialogue to address the tensions and maintain security in Nasir and neighboring areas. Despite the peace agreement set in 2018, South Sudan has experienced frequent clashes among rival communities since then, underlining the precarious nature of its peace efforts. The UN mission, established post-independence in 2011, comprises almost 20,000 peacekeepers from 73 countries, affirming its continued presence and involvement in stabilizing the region.
The recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan, resulting in the death of a general and numerous soldiers, underscores the fragility of the peace process within the country. The UN’s condemnation of the assault as a potential war crime highlights the serious implications of the incident for regional stability. With ongoing challenges, including the detention of key military figures and inter-communal tensions, there are rising concerns over the possibility of renewed conflict despite previous peace agreements. The international community strongly urges quick resolution through dialogue to avoid further violence and preserve the tenuous peace.
Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au
