Escalating clashes in South Sudan are threatening to reignite war, prompting warnings from the IGAD about the fragile peace established in 2018. Recent violence, particularly involving a UN helicopter and militia attacks, underscores the growing instability. The South Sudanese government claims calm, but international concerns are rising, with precautionary measures from the US and deployment of Ugandan forces adding to tensions.
Recent clashes in South Sudan have raised alarms of a potential return to war, troubling the delicate peace established in 2018 after a five-year civil conflict. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has issued a stern warning regarding the escalating violence between the forces supporting President Salva Kiir and those backing Vice President Riek Machar, indicating a critical threat to the nation’s stability.
The surge in tensions, particularly following the attack on a United Nations helicopter attempting to evacuate soldiers, has resulted in fatalities, including a UN crew member and a general from South Sudan. This event highlights the dangers facing the fragile peace as violent incidents increase.
Despite President Kiir’s reassurances against a return to conflict, IGAD pointed to a recent assault in Nasir, where 6,000 armed members of the White Army—a militia loyal to Machar—overwhelmed a military installation, illustrating the escalating volatility within the country.
IGAD emphasized that South Sudan is currently “balanced precariously between the promise of peace and the peril of conflict,” urging all factions to reduce hostilities. Conversely, the South Sudanese foreign ministry has claimed that the situation is secure, insisting the nation is safe for visitors and investors.
In response to the conflict’s escalation, the United States has initiated precautionary measures by evacuating non-emergency staff from its embassy due to the “ongoing armed conflict.” Additionally, Uganda has reportedly deployed special forces to Juba, although South Sudanese authorities have refuted these claims. With widespread violence appearing imminent, both regional and international stakeholders are closely monitoring developments in South Sudan.
In summary, escalating clashes in South Sudan pose a significant risk of reigniting war, threatening the already fragile peace agreement established in 2018. The IGAD’s warnings reflect the increasing violence, particularly highlighted by recent attacks involving both UN personnel and militia forces. While the South Sudanese government maintains that the situation is stable and secure, international reactions indicate heightened concerns, as stakeholders continue to watch the unfolding dynamics with caution.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
