A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during a rescue mission, resulting in the death of a crew member. The incident could be considered a war crime and has raised concerns about ongoing instability, following recent clashes between allies of President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Diplomatic entities stress the importance of maintaining the peace agreement established after the civil war and promoting dialogue to protect civilian lives.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan while on a mission to rescue soldiers, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuring two others. This incident is being referred to as a possible war crime due to the ongoing fragility of the peace established by the power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Conflicts between their allied forces in the Upper Nile State have recently intensified, adding to the instability of the region.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that during the rescue operation, which was intended to extract South Sudanese army personnel, the helicopter came under heavy gunfire. Tragically, a South Sudanese army general and additional officers were also killed during the mission. Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, stating, “The attack on UNMISS personnel is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law,” and expressed regret over the loss of life among those they were aiming to rescue.
Following a five-year civil war that concluded in 2018, South Sudan remains vulnerable. Recent accusations have arisen, with Kiir’s supporters claiming that Machar’s forces are inciting violence in Nasir County, reportedly collaborating with the White Army, an ethnically focused group of fighters. Compounding the situation, a government garrison was captured by rebels, prompting Kiir’s administration to arrest several of Machar’s allies, including high-ranking officials, though some individuals were later released.
The UNMISS evacuation mission was initiated in response to escalating violence that has resulted in numerous casualties and displacement among civilians. There are significant concerns regarding the implications of these events on the 2018 peace agreement, as regional and international diplomats urge for a commitment to dialogue and prioritization of the well-being of the South Sudanese people. A joint statement from embassies, including those of the United States and the European Union, emphasized that Juba-based leaders must put the interests of their citizens first, while UNMISS has urged adherence to both the ceasefire and the integrity of the peace agreement.
Critics have expressed concern regarding recent political maneuvers by President Kiir, interpreting them as efforts to strengthen his control at the expense of unity within the government, citing the dismissal of two vice-presidents without consultation as a sign of this trend. Such actions may further complicate the already precarious political landscape in South Sudan.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the continuing threats to peace in a nation struggling to stabilize after years of conflict. With deteriorating relations between political leaders and rising military violence, the potential for further unrest remains high. International entities have underscored the importance of adhering to peace agreements and maintaining dialogue to ensure civilian safety and national stability moving forward.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
