An airstrike in Nasir, South Sudan, resulted in civilian casualties and property damage amid rising tensions between President Salva Kiir’s forces and those loyal to First Vice President Riek Machar. Local officials confirmed the attack, attributed to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, and noted an ongoing power struggle exacerbated by recent violence and arrests.
Late on Sunday, an airstrike occurred in Nasir, South Sudan, intensifying tensions between the forces of President Salva Kiir and those of First Vice President Riek Machar. Local officials reported that military aircraft dropped multiple bombs on the town’s airstrip and surrounding areas around 11:40 PM, causing civilian casualties and significant property damage. The precise number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, with local Commissioner Gatluak Lew Thiep stating that victims were taken to hospitals for treatment.
Gatluak accused the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) of executing the airstrike as a retaliation for recent clashes in the area. He mentioned that Longechuk County was also targeted during the same bombing raids, although more information has not yet surfaced. A video obtained by Radio Tamazuj depicted flames consuming structures in Nasir, while local commander Tet Chuol Gatkuoth validated the bombing and noted that damage assessments were forthcoming.
The airstrike comes in the wake of escalating hostilities in the region. Defense Minister Gen. Chol Thon Balok recently reiterated intentions to retake Nasir during a funeral for an SSPDF commander who was killed during an unsuccessful U.N. evacuation attempt in early March. The strategic border hub of Nasir was captured by the White Army militia, which Kiir’s faction claims is associated with Machar. This incident raises concerns of a resurgence of conflict, recalling the civil war that took place from 2013 to 2018, resulting in a substantial loss of life.
In addition to military actions, Kiir’s government has reportedly detained several associates of Machar in the capital city of Juba, further undermining the fragile power-sharing agreement established under a 2018 peace deal. Since the White Army’s seizure of an SSPDF base on March 4, Nasir has emerged as a significant flashpoint in the ongoing power struggle between the two factions.
The recent airstrike in Nasir, attributed to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, underscores the escalating tensions between the government of President Salva Kiir and the forces aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar. With civilian casualties, property damage, and an ongoing power struggle marked by recent violence, the situation in South Sudan requires urgent attention to prevent further conflict. The stability of the fragile unity government remains at risk as both military actions and political arrests exacerbate the crisis.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
