South Sudan initiated air strikes against rebels in Nasir County, heightening conflicts between government forces and opposition. Information Minister confirmed casualties, with over 20 reported dead. The violence jeopardizes the 2018 peace agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar, drawing international concern regarding stability.
On Monday, South Sudan reported the execution of air strikes targeting rebel positions in Nasir County, situated in the northwest region. This military action comes amidst escalating hostilities between government forces and opposition groups, raising significant apprehension regarding the stability of the ongoing peace-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed the bombardment as part of continuous security operations in the region. He noted that should civilians be affected by the air strikes, the government would have limited capacity to respond. Local reports indicate that over 20 individuals, including children, lost their lives as a result of these strikes.
The recent clashes in Nasir County have intensified the conflict between the forces of Kiir and Machar, thereby jeopardizing the integrity of the 2018 peace accord that concluded a five-year civil war that claimed nearly 400,000 lives. The government has accused Machar’s forces of collaborating with the White Army, a militia formed by armed youth from the Nuer ethnic group, in escalating violence.
The situation deteriorated further when an attempted United Nations rescue mission ended tragically, causing the fatalities of a UN helicopter pilot along with a senior general of the South Sudanese army. Additionally, Lueth confirmed the deployment of Ugandan forces in the capital, Juba, citing a military agreement, despite earlier denials of their presence. Ugandan Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba has indicated that these special forces were sent to ensure security.
The increasing violence in South Sudan has sparked alarm on an international level. The United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has expressed concerns regarding a concerning regression in the country’s progress, which poses a threat to years of precarious stability.
In summary, the air strikes conducted by South Sudan against rebel positions in Nasir County exemplify the escalating tensions between government forces and opposition groups, threatening the fragile peace established in 2018. The involvement of the White Army and Ugandan forces adds complexity to the conflict. The international community remains vigilant as the United Nations highlights a potential regression in South Sudan’s progress towards stability.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
