A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, resulting in one crew member’s death amid ongoing clashes with the White Army militia, linked to Riek Machar. The UN has condemned the act as a potential war crime. The political landscape is further complicated by recent arrests of military officials associated with Machar, threatening the fragile peace process.
A United Nations helicopter was attacked near Nasir, South Sudan, while attempting to evacuate South Sudanese soldiers, leading to the death of one crew member alongside several troops. This incident occurred amidst escalating tensions between South Sudanese forces and the White Army militia, which is associated with First Vice President Riek Machar. Reports indicate that the helicopter was targeted as a result of heavy clashes in the area.
Nicholas Haysom, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), condemned the attack, stating that it is “utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” Haysom expressed regret over the loss of lives, emphasizing that safe passage had been previously assured and calling for an investigation into the incident to hold those accountable responsible.
This attack coincides with larger political tensions in South Sudan, as President Salva Kiir’s government links the White Army militia to forces loyal to Machar. The White Army, primarily composed of the Nuer ethnic group, previously fought with Machar’s forces during the civil war between 2013 and 2018. Additionally, Machar’s spokesperson reported recent arrests within the government, raising concerns over the fragile peace process in the nation.
The government has not publicly commented on these detentions, while Machar’s party has denied any involvement in the recent violence occurring in Nasir. As South Sudan continues to navigate this precarious situation, calls for accountability and peace remain urgent against the backdrop of historical ethnic tensions.
The recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the fragile state of peace in the region, with the involvement of the White Army militia linked to prominent political figures. The UN’s condemnation of the act as potentially a war crime underscores the escalating violence and political unrest in the area. With the arrests of key figures associated with Machar further complicating the situation, the need for thorough investigations and accountability is critical to restoring stability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
