A UN helicopter evacuation in South Sudan was attacked, killing one crew member and injuring two. More than twenty South Sudanese military personnel also reportedly died. Nicholas Haysom, Head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, calling for an investigation and accountability. UNMISS urges all parties to prevent further violence and adhere to the Revitalized Peace Agreement amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
On Friday, a UN helicopter engaged in evacuating wounded South Sudanese soldiers suffered an assault, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. Reports indicate that over twenty soldiers from the South Sudanese military, including an injured general, also perished during the attack in Nasir, Upper Nile State, although the helicopter managed to land safely afterward.
The evacuation was undertaken at the request of the signatories of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, which aims to end the civil conflict in South Sudan. This operation falls under the mandate of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to prevent violence and ease political tensions, particularly following recent severe clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) and armed youth that resulted in significant casualties and civilian displacement.
Nicholas Haysom, the Head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, describing it as “utterly abhorrent” and potentially constituting a war crime under international law. He expressed sorrow over the loss of UNMISS personnel and the military evacuees, stressing the disappointment in receiving assurances for safe passage before the incident. He further urged for an investigation to hold those accountable responsible for this egregious attack.
UNMISS has called for all involved parties to prevent further violence and for political leaders to engage in dialogue to resolve existing tensions. They emphasized the critical need for adherence to commitments regarding the ceasefire and the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement to maintain security in Nasir and other areas.
The recent attack signifies the ongoing instability in Upper Nile State, which has been plagued by conflict and insecurity. Numerous individuals have been displaced, complicating humanitarian access due to challenging terrain and continued armed activity. Notably, violent confrontations re-ignited in Nasir on February 14 between SSPDF and armed youth, resulting in numerous casualties among both civilians and combatants. An UNMISS patrol was also targeted, injuring a peacekeeper from mortar shelling during these hostilities.
In conclusion, the recent attack on a UN helicopter during a humanitarian evacuation in South Sudan highlights the severe challenges facing the region amid ongoing instability and violence. Urgent calls for accountability and adherence to peace agreements underscore the necessity for political dialogue and commitment to ceasefire. As violence threatens to escalate, the importance of maintaining humanitarian access and enhancing security remains critical for the affected populations in Upper Nile State and beyond.
Original Source: news.un.org
