UN Helicopter Attack in South Sudan Raises War Crime Concerns

A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan while attempting a rescue, resulting in the death of a crew member. The incident may constitute a war crime amidst increasing tensions between forces loyal to President Kiir and Vice President Machar. A crackdown on Machar’s allies and fears surrounding the 2018 peace agreement continue to escalate the conflict.

A United Nations helicopter came under attack in South Sudan while conducting a rescue operation, leading to the death of a crew member. This incident has raised concerns of a potential war crime, particularly amidst escalating clashes between armed forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The attack occurred in the Upper Nile State, where UN personnel were attempting to rescue South Sudanese army members when they were fired upon, resulting in serious injuries to two other crew members.

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that, during the rescue effort, a South Sudanese army general and several officers lost their lives. Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, labeling it “utterly abhorrent” and suggesting it could amount to a war crime under international law. He expressed regret over the deaths of those they were trying to extract.

Since the cessation of a five-year civil war in 2018, South Sudan has been governed under a power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar. However, accusations from Kiir’s allies have emerged, claiming that Machar’s forces are instigating unrest in the area, particularly linked to the militia known as the White Army, comprising youths from Machar’s ethnic community.

Tensions escalated as a government garrison was reportedly overrun by rebels earlier this week, prompting a government crackdown that included arrests of several of Machar’s associates, such as the Petroleum Minister and the deputy army chief. While one of the officials was released, these actions indicate rising political tensions within the region.

UNMISS aims to mitigate violence in Nasir County due to significant casualties and displacement of civilians. Regional and Western diplomats have expressed concern that such events jeopardize the stability of the 2018 peace agreement, which concluded a civil war resulting in approximately 400,000 deaths. A coalition of embassies urged South Sudanese leaders to prioritize peaceful dialogue and the welfare of their citizens while emphasizing the importance of upholding ceasefire commitments and the integrity of the peace deal.

In summary, the attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan reflects the fragile political landscape following the civil war peace agreement. Despite efforts by the UN to stabilize the situation, ongoing violence and political tensions threaten to undermine progress. Significant diplomatic concern exists regarding the actions and motivations of South Sudan’s leadership, highlighting the urgent need for peaceful resolution and adherence to previous commitments.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com