A U.N. helicopter was attacked in Nasir, South Sudan, resulting in the deaths of General Majur Dak and approximately 27 soldiers. The incident has raised concerns about the stability of the ongoing peace process, with the U.N. labeling it as possibly a war crime. South Sudanese President Kiir insists on avoiding a return to war, even as tensions escalate amidst recent political arrests.
A United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan while attempting to evacuate soldiers from the northern town of Nasir, resulting in the deaths of a South Sudanese general and numerous troops. This incident, described by the United Nations as “utterly abhorrent,” poses a significant threat to the fragile peace process in the country.
The helicopter was engaged in an airlift of personnel amidst heavy clashes between national forces and the White Army militia, which has been associated with Riek Machar’s rival faction. In a national address, President Salva Kiir confirmed the deaths of General Majur Dak and approximately 27 other soldiers, noting assurances had been provided for their safe extraction.
The specific circumstances of the attack remain unclear—whether the helicopter was struck while airborne or grounded. Nicholas Haysom, the head of the U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), emphasized that the event might constitute a war crime and called for accountability for those responsible.
Riek Machar’s representatives have refrained from commenting on this assault. The unrest had earlier seen the arrest of several senior officials linked to Machar, which could undermine the ongoing peace deal established in 2018 aimed at ending years of civil conflict.
President Kiir asserted that the country would not relapse into war, although experts express concern that escalating tensions may lead to severe conflict. The U.N. urged all parties to cease hostilities and encouraged leadership intervention to defuse the situation in Nasir and beyond.
Despite the formal peace status following the 2018 agreement, South Sudan continues to experience frequent skirmishes between competing factions. The U.N. mission, established post-independence in 2011, remains significant, with nearly 20,000 peacekeepers deployed across the nation.
In conclusion, the attack on the U.N. helicopter in South Sudan highlights the precariousness of the peace process and the ongoing tensions between rival factions. The potential implications of this event are grave, with calls for accountability and a need for urgent dialogue among leaders to mitigate further violence. As the situation evolves, it remains crucial for international stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in their pursuit of lasting peace in South Sudan.
Original Source: news.az
