The IGAD warns that escalating violence in South Sudan poses a renewed threat of war, compromising the fragile peace established after the 2018 civil war. Recent clashes, particularly involving the White Army and attacks on UN personnel, highlight the growing instability despite government reassurances. The United States has reacted by evacuating some staff, while Uganda has deployed forces, leading to intensified scrutiny from international observers.
The escalating clashes in South Sudan have prompted the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to caution that the nation is on the brink of renewed conflict, threatening the delicate peace established after the five-year civil war concluded in 2018. The IGAD’s warning highlights the rising tensions between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar.
Recent incidents, particularly the attack on a United Nations helicopter aimed at evacuating soldiers in the northeast, underscore the precarious situation. Tragically, this attack resulted in the deaths of a UN crew member and a South Sudanese general, further aggravating the conflict.
Despite assurances from President Kiir that the country will remain peaceful, the IGAD referred to a March 4 attack in Nasir, where roughly 6,000 armed members of an ethnic Nuer militia group, known as the White Army, overtook a military base, exemplifying the growing instability in the region.
Describing South Sudan as being on a knife’s edge between peace and conflict, IGAD urged all involved parties to ease hostilities. In contrast, the South Sudanese government downplayed these tensions, asserting that the situation is secure and that the nation welcomes visitors, investors, and development partners.
In light of these developments, the United States has ordered non-emergency personnel to leave due to conditions of ongoing armed conflict, while Uganda has dispatched special forces to Juba; however, South Sudanese officials have denied their deployment. Regional and international stakeholders remain vigilant as concerns regarding the potential for widespread violence persist.
The situation in South Sudan remains volatile, as highlighted by the IGAD’s warnings of a potential return to war amidst escalating clashes between political factions. The government’s assurances of calm contrast sharply with international reactions, including precautionary measures from the United States. As tensions mount, ongoing monitoring by regional and global actors will be crucial in maintaining peace and stability in South Sudan.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
