A UN helicopter attack in South Sudan killed one crew member and several soldiers, occurring amidst clashes between South Sudanese forces and the White Army militia. The UN condemned the assault as potentially a war crime and called for an investigation, while the government faces pressure amid escalating tensions tied to Riek Machar’s faction.
A recent assault on a United Nations helicopter in South Sudan resulted in the death of a crew member and multiple South Sudanese soldiers. The incident occurred as the helicopter was attempting to evacuate troops amid violent confrontations between South Sudanese forces and the White Army militia near Nasir, which is associated with First Vice President Riek Machar.
The UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has vehemently condemned the attack, labeling it “utterly abhorrent” and suggesting it may constitute a war crime. Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, conveyed his sorrow over the losses sustained and urged for an investigation into those behind the assault. The gravity of the situation is heightened by the fact that the UN had previously been assured of safe passage.
The White Army consists mainly of individuals from the Nuer ethnic group and previously allied with Machar’s forces during South Sudan’s civil war between 2013 and 2018. This militia has faced accusations of exacerbating tensions in a precarious peace environment.
Amid these developments, President Salva Kiir’s government is under significant pressure, particularly as Machar’s party denies any involvement in the fighting in Nasir. President Kiir is expected to address the nation regarding the situation later today.
The incident highlights the precarious security landscape in South Sudan as the peace process confronts increasing difficulties. The country’s stability is further jeopardized by recent arrests of senior officials linked to Machar’s party, which complicates the already tense political climate.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan exemplifies the ongoing instability and challenges facing the peace process in the region. With one crew member and several soldiers dead, the incident has elicited a strong condemnation from UNMISS, calling for accountability. This event, coupled with Machar’s party’s denials of involvement and President Kiir’s anticipated address, signals a critical juncture for South Sudan’s security and governance.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
