An airstrike by South Sudan’s airforce killed at least 19 in Nasir, prompting concerns about escalating violence amid ongoing ethnic tensions. The clashes involve national forces and the militia known as the White Army, primarily composed of Nuer youths. Allegations of collaboration between the militia and First Vice President Riek Machar’s party further complicate the situation, as fears of renewed conflict mount.
On March 17, 2025, an airstrike conducted by South Sudan’s airforce in Nasir resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals, according to local residents. This incident follows the withdrawal of government forces from the region after intense clashes with the White Army, an ethnic militia primarily composed of armed Nuer youths, raising concerns of a potential resurgence of the civil war that ravaged the nation from 2013 to 2018.
The ongoing skirmishes in Nasir have escalated tensions between national forces and the White Army. This militia has historical ties to First Vice President Riek Machar, a Nuer leader, leading the government to accuse Machar’s party of collaborating with the group. Machar’s faction has dismissed these allegations.
Earlier, a UN helicopter was attacked during an evacuation effort on March 7, resulting in the fatalities of approximately 27 soldiers, including a South Sudanese general. In a news briefing on the recent airstrike, Information Minister Michael Makuei confirmed that the bombing occurred early Monday morning. Local leader Kang Wan provided details, stating that the airstrike took place late Sunday night, and confirmed that among the 19 deceased, 15 died instantly, while the remaining succumbed to their injuries later.
Additional reports indicated that a local hospital received three wounded patients, two of whom died shortly after arrival due to severe burns. Nasir County Commissioner James Gatluak Lew suggested that the airstrike was likely an act of revenge by the South Sudanese armed forces in response to the helicopter attack. Furthermore, recent developments revealed that Uganda deployed special forces to Juba to provide security, although initial government statements denied the presence of Ugandan troops in South Sudan. Minister Makuei later acknowledged the existence of some Ugandan army units in support of the national army.
The recent airstrike in Nasir exemplifies the ongoing violence and instability in South Sudan, highlighting the fragile state of peace following years of civil conflict. The incident raises significant concerns about retaliatory actions from government forces and the involvement of ethnic militias, which could potentially reignite past tensions. The international community must remain vigilant as developments unfold, and humanitarian responses must be prioritized to aid those affected by such violence.
Original Source: bdnews24.com
