The UN has called for calm as violence erupts in South Sudan, specifically in Upper Nile state, resulting in casualties among civilians and peacekeepers. Armed clashes occurred between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed youth, utilizing heavy weaponry. UN representative Nicholas Haysom has condemned the violence and urged for restraint and the unification of armed forces.
The United Nations has urgently called for calm following violent clashes in South Sudan that have resulted in civilian casualties and injuries to peacekeeping personnel. The confrontations occurred between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPSF) and armed youth in Nasir, Upper Nile state, on February 14 and 15, as reported by UNMISS.
These skirmishes involved the use of heavy weaponry, leading to substantial risks for both civilians and combatants. While the UN did not specify the number of casualties, it noted that a peacekeeper was injured amidst mortar shelling during a routine patrol. Nicholas Haysom, the special representative of the UN Secretary-General, emphasized the urgency of restoring peace.
Haysom called on all parties involved to exhibit restraint and strictly condemned any acts of violence against peacekeeping forces, asserting that such actions contravene international law. Furthermore, the UN’s statement highlighted ongoing tensions in Western Equatoria state, signaling broader stability issues within the nation.
The historical context indicates that South Sudan is grappling with the aftermath of a brutal civil war and political strife since gaining independence in 2011. Despite a 2018 peace agreement aimed at unifying armed factions, the full deployment of the unified armed forces remains unaccomplished, exacerbating the current situation.
The UN’s urgent appeal for calm comes in response to violent conflicts in South Sudan, specifically in Upper Nile state, resulting in civilian deaths and wounded peacekeepers. Efforts toward unifying the national armed forces have yet to be realized, leaving the country vulnerable to persistent violence and instability. The need for restraint and adherence to international law is critical to restoring peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
