A UN helicopter evacuation operation in South Sudan was attacked, resulting in casualties among crew members and South Sudanese military personnel. The incident reflects ongoing instability in Upper Nile State and raises concerns regarding adherence to known peace agreements. UNMISS condemns the act and calls for an investigation and dialogue to address escalating tensions and uphold commitments to ceasefire and peace.
On Friday, a UN helicopter engaged in the evacuation of injured South Sudanese soldiers was attacked in Nasir, Upper Nile State. This incident resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. In addition, reports indicate that over two dozen South Sudanese military personnel, including an injured General, lost their lives when the helicopter came under fire. Fortunately, the helicopter managed to land safely despite the attack.
The evacuation operation was conducted at the request of signatories to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, an accord aimed at ending the ongoing civil war in South Sudan. This mission was part of UNMISS efforts to mitigate violence in Nasir and reduce escalating political tensions that have followed recent clashes between government troops of the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) and armed youth, leading to considerable casualties and civilian displacement.
Nicholas Haysom, Head of UNMISS, condemned the attack on UN personnel, stating, “The attack on UNMISS personnel is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He expressed profound sorrow for the loss of UNMISS personnel and the military evacuees, emphasizing the breach of assurances for safe passage. Haysom further called for an investigation to identify those accountable for the attack.
UNMISS urged all involved parties to refrain from further violence and emphasized the necessity for political leaders to engage in urgent dialogue to alleviate tensions. The Mission highlighted the importance of adhering to the ceasefire agreements and preserving the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement as critical components for stability in Nasir and beyond.
The attack illustrates the persistent instability in Upper Nile State, where continuous clashes and insecurity have resulted in significant displacement. Humanitarian access is increasingly hampered by challenging terrain and ongoing armed conflict. Recent violent exchanges initiated on February 14 between the SSPDF and armed youth utilized heavy weaponry, causing injuries among both civilians and combatants. An UNMISS patrol was also targeted, resulting in injuries to a peacekeeper due to mortar shelling during these hostilities.
The assault on the UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the dire security situation and the implications for international law. As calls for accountability rise, the necessity for political dialogue among parties becomes increasingly important to alleviate tensions and uphold the ceasefire. Ongoing instability in Upper Nile State calls for urgent humanitarian intervention and a commitment to peace agreements to prevent further violence and displacement.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
