An attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan resulted in multiple fatalities, including a general. The UN condemned the attack, possibly classifying it as a war crime, and emphasized the need for investigations. Tensions remain high due to recent arrests of key officials and ongoing ethnic conflicts, leading to calls for urgent dialogue to preserve peace.
A recent attack on a United Nations helicopter in South Sudan has resulted in the deaths of a South Sudanese general and dozens of soldiers. This incident occurred during an evacuation attempt from Nasir, where national forces faced off against the White Army militia. The United Nations condemned the attack as “utterly abhorrent” and described it as a potential war crime, highlighting its detrimental impact on the already tenuous peace process.
The UN helicopter was flying in response to heavy clashes that erupted in Nasir. President Salva Kiir stated in a national address that assurances had been given regarding the safety of General Majur Dak prior to the evacuation effort. It was reported that approximately 27 troops were killed, including a member of the U.N. crew.
Details regarding whether the helicopter was struck while airborne or grounded remain unclear. Meanwhile, Machar’s representative has not commented on the incident, although previously denied any involvement of his party in the clashes. Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), expressed the need for an investigation into this incident to identify those responsible.
In a troubling development, security forces arrested major officials allied with Machar, including the petroleum and peacebuilding ministers. This action poses a threat to the fragile 2018 peace agreement that concluded a brutal civil conflict. The white Army, primarily made up of Nuer youth, has ties to Machar, adding complexity to the current turmoil, given their past alliance against Kiir’s Dinka troops.
Despite the growing tension, President Kiir has insisted that South Sudan will not revert to war, though analysts remain cautious, forecasting that the situation may escalate. The United Nations has called for immediate dialogue among leaders to avert further violence and to stabilize the security situation, particularly in Nasir. Although South Sudan has been officially at peace since 2018, sporadic clashes among rival communities have continued to occur.
The attack on the UN helicopter highlights the fragile state of peace in South Sudan, exacerbated by political detentions and ethnic tensions. While the government asserts a commitment to peace, analysts warn of the risk of renewed conflict. The international community continues to urge dialogue and restraint to prevent further violence and maintain stability in the region.
Original Source: news.az
