South Sudan has conducted air strikes in Nasir County amid escalating clashes between pro-Kiir and pro-Machar forces, threatening a fragile peace agreement. The government confirmed over 20 casualties, including children, as tensions rise due to accusations of unrest instigated by the White Army. The involvement of Ugandan forces adds further complexity, leading to international concerns about the country’s stability.
Recent air strikes carried out by South Sudan have escalated tensions in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, where clashes between the forces of President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar have erupted. These violent confrontations pose a significant risk to the tenuous peace-sharing agreement established between the two leaders. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed these air operations and reported casualties that included children, further highlighting the urgent humanitarian implications of the conflict.
During a press conference, Minister Lueth stated, “Our air force bombarded Nasir this morning,” indicating that the strikes are part of ongoing security operations aimed at quelling unrest. He also commented on the unfortunate involvement of civilians in these military actions, asserting, “If you as a civilian happen to be there… then there is nothing we can do.” This situation complicates the already fragile peace initiated in 2018 following a brutal civil war that resulted in approximately 400,000 lives lost.
The conflict has intensified due to accusations against Machar’s forces, who are alleged to be collaborating with the White Army, an informal militia comprised of youths from the Nuer ethnic group. This claim has been exacerbated by recent skirmishes, including an incident where an estimated 6,000 White Army fighters overran a military encampment. An international rescue attempt by the United Nations tragically resulted in the death of both a UN helicopter pilot and a senior South Sudanese general, adding to the tensions.
Additionally, Minister Lueth acknowledged the presence of Ugandan forces in Juba under a military agreement, which he had previously denied. This deployment follows statements made by Ugandan army chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who confirmed the entry of special forces to secure the capital. The growing unrest in South Sudan has drawn serious international scrutiny; the UN Commission on Human Rights has expressed concern over the deteriorating situation, warning of an “alarming regression” that could jeopardize years of advancements made since the peace deal was signed.
The series of air strikes in South Sudan represents a critical escalation in the ongoing conflict between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. With casualties mounting and external forces involved, the already tenuous peace agreement is under immense strain. The international community remains concerned about the potential regression of stability in South Sudan, emphasizing the need for immediate attention and diplomatic intervention.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital