South Sudan has launched air strikes against rebel forces in Nasir County, escalating tensions between the government and opposition. Over 20 individuals have reportedly died. The situation threatens the 2018 peace agreement between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar. The presence of Ugandan forces and warnings from the UN about human rights regressions highlight the urgent global concern regarding the stability in South Sudan.
South Sudan has commenced air strikes against rebel forces in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, further straining the fragile peace-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Clashes between their respective forces have escalated tensions, leading to fears of a return to civil war.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed at a press briefing, “Our air force bombarded Nasir this morning.” Reports indicate that over 20 individuals, including children, have lost their lives in the conflict. Minister Lueth termed the air strikes as necessary “security operations” while suggesting that civilian casualties are an unfortunate aspect of warfare.
The ongoing fighting jeopardizes a 2018 peace deal between Kiir and Machar, following a devastating civil war that claimed approximately 400,000 lives. Allegations have surfaced from Kiir’s allies, asserting that Machar’s forces are collaborating with the White Army, a group of armed youths from the Nuer community, to incite violence in the area.
The situation escalated earlier this month when an estimated 6,000 White Army insurgents captured a military encampment in Nasir. A United Nations rescue operation tragically resulted in the death of a UN helicopter pilot and a senior South Sudanese general.
Moreover, Minister Lueth acknowledged the presence of Ugandan forces in Juba, tied to a recent “military pact,” contradicting previous denials of their deployment to South Sudan. Ugandan army chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced that these special forces had “entered Juba to secure it.” The rising unrest has provoked significant international concern, with the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan indicating that the nation is experiencing an “alarming regression” that might reverse past progress.
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In summary, South Sudan’s air strikes against rebel forces signify a serious escalation in ongoing conflicts, jeopardizing the peace established in 2018. With rising civilian casualties and allegations of collusion between opposing factions, international observers express deep concerns regarding the country’s stability. These developments underscore the fragility of peace in South Sudan and the urgent need for diplomatic interventions.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital
