Escalating clashes in South Sudan have raised concerns of renewed conflict, as IGAD warns that violence between President Kiir and Vice President Machar’s factions threatens the 2018 peace deal. A recent attack on a UN helicopter and militia violence highlights the country’s instability. Despite government assurances of safety, the United States has ordered non-emergency staff to leave, indicating growing international concern over the situation.
Recent clashes in South Sudan have raised significant alarms about the potential for renewed conflict, as highlighted by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The organization expressed concern that ongoing violence between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar threatens the hard-won peace established after the civil war concluded in 2018.
Tensions have escalated, particularly following an incident where a United Nations helicopter was targeted while attempting to evacuate soldiers in the northeast, resulting in fatalities among the UN personnel and a South Sudanese general. Notably, a violent attack in Nasir on March 4, where approximately 6,000 members of the White Army militia overwhelmed a military base, has underscored the increasing unrest in the region. The White Army, associated with Machar, represents a major faction within the conflict.
IGAD described the situation as precarious, emphasizing that South Sudan stands at a critical juncture between peace and potential conflict, and urged all involved parties to reduce hostilities. Conversely, the South Sudanese government minimized these concerns, asserting through its foreign ministry that the nation remains secure and welcoming for visitors and investors.
Despite government reassurances, the United States announced precautionary measures, removing non-emergency personnel amid fears of escalating violence. Additionally, Uganda has dispatched special forces to the capital, Juba, though South Sudanese officials have disputed this information. As the threat of escalating unrest looms, both regional and international stakeholders are closely observing the developments in South Sudan.
The escalating clashes in South Sudan are alarming regional observers and underscore the fragility of the peace achieved after years of civil war. The rising tensions between government factions, highlighted by recent violent incidents, necessitate immediate dialogue and de-escalation efforts. While the South Sudanese government projects a calm environment, international concern remains, illustrating the precarious balance the nation faces between peace and conflict.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
