UN Helicopter Attack in South Sudan Results in Fatalities and Urgent Calls for Accountability

A UN helicopter was attacked in Upper Nile State, killing one crew member and injuring two. The incident also resulted in casualties among South Sudanese military personnel. The mission was part of efforts to de-escalate violence following clashes. UNMISS condemned the act and called for accountability and dialogue among political leaders.

A United Nations helicopter was targeted in an attack while attempting to evacuate wounded South Sudanese soldiers in Upper Nile State. The incident occurred on Friday and resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. Reports indicate that over two dozen South Sudanese military personnel were killed, including a general, during the assault, although the helicopter managed to land safely afterward.

This evacuation mission was undertaken at the request of the signatories to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, which aims to end the ongoing civil conflict in South Sudan. UNMISS, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, has been actively working to mitigate violence in Nasir and reduce political tensions following recent clashes between government forces and armed youth, which have led to significant casualties and the displacement of civilians.

Nicholas Haysom, the Head of UNMISS, condemned the attack stating, “The attack on UNMISS personnel is utterly abhorrent and may constitute a war crime under international law.” He expressed sorrow for both the loss of UN personnel and the deceased military evacuees, citing the received assurances of safe passage. Moreover, Haysom urged for an investigation to identify those responsible for the assault.

UNMISS further called upon all involved parties to cease further violence and stressed the importance of dialogue among political leaders to resolve existing tensions. The Mission emphasized the critical need for adherence to ceasefire commitments to uphold the integrity of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

The assault reflects the persistent instability in Upper Nile State, where clashes and insecurity have become commonplace. Thousands of individuals have been displaced, and humanitarian efforts are being hampered due to challenging terrain and violent activities. Notably, clashes erupted on February 14 between the South Sudan People’s Defence Force and armed youth, resulting in casualties for both civilians and combatants. During these clashes, an UNMISS patrol was also targeted, injuring one peacekeeper from mortar shelling.

The recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan underscores the escalating violence and instability in the region. It highlights the urgent need for accountability and adherence to peace agreements by all parties involved. As tensions continue to mount, the call for political dialogue and efforts to uphold ceasefire commitments becomes essential to avoid further humanitarian crises and protect civilian lives.

Original Source: www.miragenews.com