South Sudan’s stability is in jeopardy following a U.N. helicopter attack amid escalating violence between the government and opposition factions. The ongoing tensions threaten the seven-year peace deal and have elicited U.S. aid cuts, further exacerbating humanitarian crises. Regional leaders call for immediate dialogue to prevent a return to war.
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, is once again on the brink of war following an attack on a United Nations helicopter. This incident occurred during a mission to evacuate government soldiers wounded in clashes with the opposition White Army in Upper Nile State, resulting in one crew member’s death and two injuries. The U.S. has since evacuated nonemergency government employees due to rising security concerns.
The clashes involve the national military led by President Salva Kiir and the White Army, allied with Vice President Riek Machar. The civil war that erupted in 2013 concluded with a peace accord in 2018, aimed at demilitarizing the capital, Juba, and sharing oil revenue. Unfortunately, deeply entrenched political and ethnic disputes persist, along with powerful militias causing frequent violence, particularly among Kiir’s Dinka and Machar’s Nuer ethnic groups, resulting in massive displacement and economic decline.
The latest escalation stems from accusations and retaliatory actions between the factions. Machar’s coalition alleged government attacks on their allies, leading to the arrest of several prominent supporters, with some remaining unaccounted for. Government forces have also faced White Army attacks, prompting further military arrests, undermining attempts to maintain peace, and delaying presidential elections slated for next year, inducing frustration among opposition stakeholders.
U.S. aid cuts have exacerbated humanitarian crises, halting essential services, and affecting food security and health initiatives. The cessation of aid risks the proliferation of diseases such as cholera and malaria. Additionally, Uganda has sent troops to support Salva Kiir’s administration, emphasizing their recognition of his presidency and invoking strong warnings against actions targeting him. This military presence raises concerns about further destabilization in the region.
Regional leaders have urged South Sudan’s factions to pursue dialogue and resolve tensions peacefully. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development pressed for the release of detained officials and called for constitutional reforms as essential steps before upcoming elections.
In conclusion, South Sudan faces critical challenges as tensions rise between the government and opposition forces. The recent attack on a U.N. helicopter has highlighted the fragility of the peace deal established years ago, prompting concerns of renewed conflict. With humanitarian aid cuts compounding the crisis and external military interventions from Uganda, it is imperative for leadership to engage in genuine dialogue to avert a catastrophic escalation into civil war.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
