A UN helicopter was attacked during an evacuation in South Sudan, resulting in one crew member’s death. The incident involved clashes between government forces and the White Army militia, linked to Vice President Riek Machar. UNMISS condemned the act as potentially a war crime. Tensions remain high following arrests of officials associated with Machar, raising concerns over the peace process.
A United Nations helicopter was reportedly attacked while attempting to evacuate South Sudanese soldiers near Nasir, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuring several troops. This incident occurred against the backdrop of escalating violence between South Sudanese forces and the White Army militia, which is associated with First Vice President Riek Machar.
The attack transpired on Friday amid heavy clashes as the helicopter was conducting the evacuation. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) condemned the incident, holding that it constitutes a possible violation of international law. Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, expressed deep regret regarding the situation and called for accountability.
According to Haysom, “The attack … is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He further stressed the importance of investigating the incident due to assurances of safe passage that had been received before the helicopter was attacked.
The situation remains tense following the attack, with President Salva Kiir’s office announcing that he would address the nation later that day. Tensions between Kiir’s government and Machar’s forces have been heightened recently, particularly after the arrest of several senior officials affiliated with Machar, leading to concerns regarding the fragile peace process in South Sudan.
The White Army, primarily consisting of individuals from the Nuer ethnic group, has previously allied with Machar’s forces throughout the civil war between 2013 and 2018 against the Dinka troops supporting Kiir. As the unrest continues, Machar’s party has denied any involvement in the latest violence in Nasir, while the government remains silent on the recent detentions of key figures.
In summary, a UN helicopter attack in South Sudan highlights the ongoing violence and fragile peace within the country. The incident, condemned by UNMISS, raises serious concerns regarding international law violations and the accountability of those involved. With further arrests of senior officials associated with Riek Machar, the political scenario remains precarious, underscoring the urgent need for stability and restoration of peace in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
