Air Strike in South Sudan: 19 Killed Amid Escalating Violence

An air strike by South Sudan’s airforce killed at least 19 individuals in Nasir, amidst fears of renewed civil conflict. Accusations of collusion between political figures and ethnic militias persist, exacerbating tensions. The humanitarian crisis is evident, with hospitals treating severe burn victims amid ongoing violence and instability.

On Monday morning, an air strike by South Sudan’s air force resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals in Nasir, a town in eastern South Sudan. This incident occurred less than two weeks after government forces withdrew from the area following violent clashes with the White Army, an ethnic militia primarily composed of armed Nuer youths. The violence raised concerns about a potential resurgence of the civil war that occurred from 2013 to 2018, which claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.

The South Sudanese government accuses the party of First Vice President Riek Machar, a Nuer, of colluding with the White Army. This group had previously allied with Machar’s forces during the civil conflict against President Salva Kiir’s predominantly ethnic Dinka troops. Machar’s party has publicly refuted these allegations of involvement. Additionally, it was reported that a general from South Sudan was among approximately 27 soldiers killed on March 7 when a UN helicopter, tasked with evacuation, came under attack.

Michael Makuei, South Sudan’s Information Minister, confirmed the airstrike during a news conference. Community leader Kang Wan reported that the incident took place late on Sunday night, noting that out of the 19 fatalities, 15 succumbed immediately, while others died from their injuries. Witnesses described the scene as devastating, with Wan stating, “All of them they got burned, everything got burned.”

Medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) reported that their hospital in nearby Ulang received three wounded individuals from Nasir on Monday. Unfortunately, two of these patients were pronounced dead upon arrival due to severe burns. According to Nasir County Commissioner James Gatluak Lew, who is aligned with Machar, the attack by government forces may have been a retaliatory measure for the helicopter incident.

Moreover, Uganda recently announced the deployment of special forces in South Sudan’s capital Juba to enhance security, a claim the South Sudanese government initially denied. However, Makuei later acknowledged that some Ugandan army units were present to assist the South Sudanese national army as required.

The recent air strike in South Sudan exemplifies the ongoing violence and instability in the region, stemming from ethnic tensions and historical conflicts. The conflict involves accusations against political figures and militias, further complicating the already turbulent situation. The humanitarian impact is significant, with medical facilities overwhelmed and casualties reported. Continued dialogue and efforts towards reconciliation remain crucial in preventing further loss of life and fostering stability in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.canberratimes.com.au