A United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan during a rescue mission, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. The incident raises concerns of a potential war crime amid escalating clashes between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. UN officials and diplomatic representatives have urged for renewed commitments to peace and dialogue amid ongoing political tensions.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter in South Sudan was attacked while undertaking a rescue mission, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. This incident has raised serious concerns over a potential war crime, as it occurred amidst increasing tensions between factions supporting President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that their team was targeting South Sudanese army members trapped in the area when they were fired upon. Tragically, several officials, including a South Sudanese army general, lost their lives during this botched rescue operation.
Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, stating, “The attack on UNMISS personnel is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He expressed condolences for the casualties among the soldiers they aimed to evacuate.
Since a peace deal in 2018, which officially ended a five-year civil conflict, political stability has remained tenuous. Recent accusations have emerged against Machar’s forces, suggesting they are instigating violence in Upper Nile State, aiming to disrupt the fragile governance system.
In response to increased hostilities, the South Sudanese government’s actions included the arrest of Machar’s political allies within the capital, Juba. Notably, prominent figures such as Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and deputy army chief General Gabriel Duop Lam were detained, adding to the ongoing political strife in the region.
UNMISS emphasized the necessity of their evacuation operations as a means to mitigate violence in Nasir County, which has led to considerable civilian suffering and displacement. Diplomatic circles have raised alarms about the ramifications of these conflicts on the lasting peace agreement established in 2018, following a civil war causing around 400,000 deaths. A coalition of embassies called on South Sudan’s leadership to prioritize peaceful dialogue and the welfare of their citizens.
Furthermore, there have been criticisms regarding President Kiir’s political maneuvers, which some analysts perceive as efforts to strengthen his position while marginalizing Machar. Recently, two vice-presidents were dismissed by Kiir without necessary consultations, highlighting ongoing tensions among the political elite.
The attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan illustrates the precarious nature of the country’s peace agreement and the ongoing violence prevailing among different factions. With casualties on both sides and criticisms directed towards the current government leadership, there is an urgent need for renewed commitments to peace and dialogue. Upholding the integrity of the peace agreement remains vital for the stability of South Sudan as it navigates its troubled political landscape.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
