A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, killing a crew member during a rescue mission. President Salva Kiir called for calm, reiterating that the country would not revert to war. The incident jeopardizes the ongoing power-sharing agreement with Riek Machar. Analysts warn of escalating violence, urging for immediate political dialogue to maintain peace and protect the population.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked during a rescue mission in South Sudan, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. President Salva Kiir urged for calm and assured that the nation would “not go back to war.” This incident threatens the fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, following recent clashes in Upper Nile State.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) stated its helicopter was under fire while attempting to extract South Sudanese army members. A South Sudanese army general and other officers also died during the operation, leading to concerns that the incident may constitute a war crime. Kiir reiterated, “Let no one take law into their hands,” emphasizing that his government would manage the crisis responsibly.
Riek Machar condemned the “barbaric act” via a statement from his office, reaffirming that restoring peace is paramount and that he will engage with all stakeholders to mitigate violence. UNMISS’s head, Nicholas Haysom, described the attack as “utterly abhorrent” and called for accountability, stressing the need for an investigation into the incident.
Earlier, a local government garrison had been overtaken by rebels, prompting the government to arrest several of Machar’s allies. The escalating violence in Nasir County has resulted in significant civilian displacement, and Western diplomats have warned that the ongoing clashes could jeopardize the 2018 peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war.
Analysts have scrutinized Kiir’s recent political maneuvers, viewing them as attempts to solidify power and disregard alliance with Machar. Observers express deepening fears of war, with calls for the international community to ready peacekeeping forces to safeguard civilians, potentially preventing ethnic massacres. A coalition of embassies reiterated the necessity for high-level dialogue to avert further violence in South Sudan.
The attack on the UN helicopter during a rescue operation highlights the fragile state of peace in South Sudan. President Salva Kiir’s call for calm and Riek Machar’s condemnation of the violence reflect the urgent need to address ongoing tensions. As the situation deteriorates, stakeholders and the international community must prioritize dialogue to uphold peace agreements and protect civilian lives in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
