A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan on an evacuation mission, resulting in one crew member’s death and injuries to two others. This incident comes amidst escalating political tensions and fears of renewed civil conflict in the nation. President Salva Kiir called for calm, although critics blame him and rival leaders for the ongoing crisis.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked during an evacuation mission in South Sudan, resulting in one crew member’s death and injuring two others. The helicopter was attempting to rescue wounded South Sudanese soldiers in Upper Nile State, amid escalating tensions in the region. Tragically, the UN reported that the wounded soldiers were also killed during the incident, although it is unclear whether the aircraft was on the ground or in flight at the time of the attack.
This act of violence occurred against a backdrop of rising political tensions in South Sudan, with many fearing a resurgence of civil conflict. President Salva Kiir addressed the situation, urging calm and emphasizing, “Let no one take law into their hands. The government which I lead will handle this crisis.” Critics, however, argue that both Mr. Kiir and his rival leaders are largely accountable for the ongoing crisis.
The power-sharing agreement established between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar concluded a devastating civil war in 2018. Recently, however, this agreement has been jeopardized, with clashes between their respective loyal forces reported in Upper Nile State. South Sudan’s information minister stated that 27 soldiers died in the helicopter attack, but this figure has not been independently verified.
The attack on the UN helicopter underscores the escalating violence and instability in South Sudan, highlighting the fragility of the current political situation. As tensions remain high, the potential for renewed civil conflict looms ever larger. The international community watches closely as the leadership navigates this precarious moment, with millions of lives at stake.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
