An airstrike by South Sudan’s airforce killed at least 19 in Nasir, near the Ethiopian border. The attack follows government forces’ withdrawal amid ethnic militia clashes that could reignite civil war. Allegations of collaboration between Riek Machar’s party and militias remain contentious, while Uganda has also deployed troops to Juba amid escalating tensions.
On March 17, 2025, an airstrike conducted by South Sudan’s airforce resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals in the eastern town of Nasir. This incident occurred shortly after government forces withdrew from the area amidst severe clashes with the White Army, an ethnic militia composed primarily of Nuer youths. The ongoing tensions in Nasir raise concerns about the potential re-escalation of the civil conflict that plagued the region from 2013 to 2018.
The violence between national forces and the White Army in Nasir threatens to rekindle the devastating civil war that has caused immense suffering and loss of life. The South Sudanese government has accused the political faction led by First Vice President Riek Machar, who belongs to the Nuer ethnic group, of allying with the White Army. Machar’s party, however, has denied any involvement in the recent conflict. On March 7, during an attempted evacuation by a UN helicopter, around 27 soldiers were reported killed, including a South Sudanese general.
Minister of Information Michael Makuei confirmed that airstrikes were launched targeting Nasir. Kang Wan, a local leader, indicated that the bombing occurred late Sunday night, leading to immediate fatalities among the injured, with reports of up to 16 bodies being observed. The humanitarian organization Médecins Sans Frontières noted that its hospital received three wounded patients, with two declared dead upon arrival due to severe burns.
James Gatluak Lew, the Commissioner of Nasir County and supporter of Machar, suggested that the airstrike might have been an act of retribution following the helicopter ambush. Additionally, Uganda has announced the deployment of special forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, a claim the South Sudanese government initially denied. However, Makuei later affirmed that some Ugandan units were present to assist the national army as necessary.
The airstrike in Nasir represents a significant escalation in the conflict in South Sudan, following the recent withdrawal of government forces. The tensions between the South Sudanese government and ethnic militias, particularly the White Army, are fraught with the potential to reignite civil war. Humanitarian impacts continue to be profound, as demonstrated by the tragic loss of life and injuries sustained in the recent violence. This situation remains fluid, with international monitoring potentially necessary to prevent further escalation.
Original Source: bdnews24.com
