The South Sudanese government has called for civilians to evacuate northern areas after escalating violence from an armed group. The military’s recent airstrike threatens the 2018 peace agreement designed to end a devastating civil war. Tensions rise between President Kiir and Vice-President Machar as conflict in Nasir County intensifies.
On Monday, the government of South Sudan urged civilians to evacuate from a northern region following a military airstrike targeting an armed group responsible for seizing a military base and attacking a United Nations helicopter. This escalation of violence in Nasir County poses a serious threat to the 2018 peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, which concluded a devastating civil war that resulted in over 400,000 casualties.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that civilians who refuse to leave designated military zones will face appropriate military actions. He also confirmed the execution of an airstrike in Nasir County, with plans for further operations. Local reports indicate that over a dozen civilians lost their lives in the recent bombing, though the military has not verified these claims.
The ongoing conflict in Nasir County involves government forces and a group known as the White Army, potentially linked to Riek Machar. Tensions between Machar and Kiir have intensified recently, especially after Kiir dismissed officials loyal to Machar, who warned that unilateral actions jeopardize the fragile peace agreement. Earlier this month, government troops encircled Machar’s residence in Juba, illustrating the current volatility of the situation.
In summary, the South Sudanese government’s urgent request for civilians to evacuate northern regions highlights the severity of the ongoing conflict in Nasir County. The military’s recent airstrikes represent a significant escalation that threatens the peace established in 2018. This situation requires careful monitoring, considering the fragile relationship between President Kiir and Vice-President Machar as hostilities continue to unfold.
Original Source: morningstaronline.co.uk
