In South Sudan, a UN evacuation attempt ended tragically as helicopters were shot down, resulting in significant casualties among military personnel. The incident has raised concerns about potential war crimes and threatens the fragile peace established in previous agreements. President Kiir has urged calm amidst escalating tensions and violence.
A recent incident in South Sudan has resulted in significant fatalities after UN helicopters came under fire during an evacuation attempt. One crew member was killed and a South Sudanese general, along with several other troops, died amid the violence in Upper Nile state, according to reports from the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The UN has stated that the attack may constitute a war crime due to its severe nature.
President Salva Kiir reported that a second UN helicopter crashed after taking off post-attack, resulting in additional casualties. However, UNMISS later confirmed that both helicopters landed safely in Malakal. According to Information Minister Michael Makuei, a total of twenty-seven South Sudanese soldiers lost their lives in the same conflict.
The ongoing fighting in Upper Nile is threatening the fragile peace agreement established between President Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, following a prolonged civil war that started in 2013. Despite a peace agreement signed in 2018, peace remains elusive as violence continues, particularly between the South Sudan Army and the White Army militia, which had previously allied with Machar.
UNMISS head Nicholas Haysom condemned the attack on personnel, declaring it “extremely abhorrent” and potentially a war crime under international law. The UN expresses condolences to the victims’ families and regrets the loss of life during the evacuation efforts. Following the violence, President Kiir has called for calm and urged citizens to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing his government’s commitment to managing the crisis.
Having gained independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan remains the world’s newest nation, yet faces serious challenges to its peace and stability, highlighted by the recent escalation of violence and arrests of key figures associated with Machar.
The recent attack on UN helicopters during an evacuation in South Sudan has led to numerous fatalities, including both military personnel and UN staff. The situation highlights the persistent conflict undermining the fragile peace established after years of civil war. Both national leaders and international bodies are called upon to address the escalating violence and work towards lasting stability in this young nation, which continues to grapple with its tumultuous history.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
