A UN helicopter in South Sudan was attacked during an evacuation mission, resulting in one crew member’s death and multiple injuries. Over 20 soldiers, including a General, were also killed. The incident highlights ongoing instability in Upper Nile State, and UNMISS called for an investigation and adherence to peace commitments.
A United Nations helicopter engaged in the evacuation of wounded South Sudanese soldiers was attacked on Friday, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. This incident occurred in Nasir, Upper Nile State, where more than two dozen soldiers, including an injured General, were reportedly killed as well. Fortunately, the helicopter managed to land safely despite coming under fire.
The evacuation was requested by the parties to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, aimed at ending the protracted civil conflict in South Sudan. This mission was part of the UN’s broader efforts to mitigate violence in Nasir and to ease the political tensions following recent clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) and armed youth that resulted in substantial casualties and the displacement of civilians.
Nicholas Haysom, the Head of UNMISS, condemned the attack on UN personnel, deeming it “utterly abhorrent” and potentially a war crime under international law. He expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life among both the UN mission personnel and the military evacuees, particularly since assurances of safe passage had been provided. Haysom emphasized the need for an investigation to ascertain those accountable for the attack.
UNMISS urged all parties involved to refrain from violence and called upon political leaders to resolve tensions through dialogue, aiming to prevent further deterioration of the security situation in Nasir and beyond. The Mission highlighted the importance of adhering to the ceasefire and maintaining the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
This attack underscores the ongoing instability within Upper Nile State, where clashes and insecurity have persisted for months. Thousands of individuals have been forcibly displaced, and humanitarian access remains severely hampered due to challenging terrain and ongoing armed activities. Violent confrontations erupted on February 14th in Nasir between the SSPDF and armed youth, employing heavy weaponry; both civilian and combatant casualties were reported. Additionally, an UNMISS patrol experienced incoming fire during these conflicts, resulting in one peacekeeper sustaining injuries from mortar shelling.
The recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan revealed pressing issues surrounding the regional instability and the ongoing conflict. The loss of a crew member and the casualties among South Sudanese military personnel underscore the fragile security situation. The incident stresses the need for accountability, ongoing dialogue among political leaders, and adherence to peace agreements to safeguard the region’s stability and humanitarian needs.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
