In South Sudan, a recent UN helicopter attack has led to the deaths of 27 individuals, amidst escalating clashes between the South Sudan Defence Forces and the White Army militia. The UN described the assault as potentially a war crime, with ongoing violence threatening the fragile peace established after years of civil conflict. President Kiir has urged the nation to remain calm, while violence continues to challenge stability in the newly independent state.
Recent violence in South Sudan has resulted in the death of at least 27 individuals, including army personnel, following an attack on a United Nations helicopter. The UN reported that one crew member was killed and a South Sudanese general was injured during the evacuation attempt in Upper Nile state. The conflict has intensified as tensions rise between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, threatening an already fragile peace deal that was established in 2018 after a devastating civil war.
The UN expressed that the assault on their helicopter could constitute a war crime, highlighting the ongoing fighting between the South Sudan Defence Forces and the White Army militia. UNMISS head Nicholas Haysom condemned the attack as “extremely abhorrent,” expressing condolences for the loss of personnel amidst receiving assurances for safe passage. The situation has raised alarms regarding potential escalations in violence as several allies of Machar have been arrested, intensifying fears of a return to war.
President Kiir urged the nation to stay calm and reassured citizens that his government would manage the crisis. He emphasized, “I have said time and again, that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take the law into their own hands.” Since its independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced persistent conflict, with the recent clashes reflecting deep-rooted issues that remain unresolved after years of turmoil.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious, with the recent helicopter attack highlighting significant risks to peace and security. The UN’s acknowledgment of the attack as potentially a war crime underscores the severity of the events occurring in Upper Nile state. Despite ongoing fighting and arrests, President Kiir’s call for calm demonstrates an attempt to prevent further escalation of violence in the nation.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
