A UN helicopter attack in South Sudan resulted in the deaths of General Majur Dak and numerous soldiers, raising serious concerns about the peace process. The UN described the incident as potentially criminal and urged an investigation. Tensions between the government and forces loyal to Vice-President Machar threaten the fragile 2018 peace agreement, with analysts warning of a looming conflict.
A United Nations helicopter was attacked while attempting to evacuate a South Sudanese general and his soldiers from the northern town of Nasir. This incident resulted in the deaths of the general, Majur Dak, and dozens of other soldiers. The UN condemned the attack, describing it as “utterly abhorrent” and raising concerns about potential violations of international law, undermining the fragile peace process in the region.
The attack comes amid escalating tensions due to clashes between allied forces of President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar in Upper Nile state. That power-sharing agreement, reached in 2018 after a lengthy civil war, is now under threat. President Kiir confirmed that assurances for the general’s safety had been received prior to the helicopter’s mission to rescue him and his men.
Kiir urged calm among citizens, stating, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war.” The government plans to address the crisis while continuing its path toward peace. The information minister reported that approximately 27 troops were killed, alongside a UN crew member, although details surrounding the timing and nature of the attack are unclear.
The conflict has deep historical roots, as Machar’s forces have been accused of inciting unrest in Nasir, purportedly alongside the White Army, a militia comprised of the Nuer ethnic group. Notably, Machar’s spokesperson declined to comment on the specific attack while highlighting the government’s recent arrests of prominent military figures aligned with Machar, risking the stability of the peace agreement.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN mission in South Sudan, reiterated concerns regarding the attack, emphasizing the need for accountability and an investigation into the situation. Analysts paint a grim picture of escalating violence, with the International Crisis Group warning that South Sudan is increasingly heading toward another large-scale conflict unless deescalation efforts are realized quickly. The UN has called for all parties to abstain from violence and advocated for dialogue to ameliorate the ongoing tensions. The UN mission remains a critical peacekeeping force in South Sudan, consisting of almost 20,000 personnel from 73 member states.
In summary, the attack on the UN helicopter signifies a grave escalation in the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, threatening the fragile peace established after years of civil war. The incident highlights the urgent need for dialogue and disarmament among conflicting factions. With concerns over potential war crimes and the arrest of military officials linked to Machar’s party, the stability of the power-sharing agreement is at a precarious juncture. The international community must monitor and respond to the escalating crisis to prevent further violence and protect civilian lives.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
