UN Evacuation Attempt in South Sudan Disrupted by Attack, Several Casualties Reported

A UN evacuation in South Sudan was disrupted by gunfire, resulting in multiple deaths. President Kiir reported a second helicopter crash after the attack. The UN condemned the violence, citing possible war crimes. Ongoing conflict threatens the fragile peace agreement between Kiir and Machar, raising concerns of renewed civil war amid recent arrests of Machar’s allies.

In South Sudan, a recent attempt by the United Nations to evacuate military personnel was disrupted when a UN helicopter came under fire, resulting in fatalities. The UN mission in South Sudan (Unmiss) reported that one crew member lost his life, while an injured South Sudanese general and other troops were also killed during the incident in Upper Nile state.

President Salva Kiir indicated a second UN helicopter took off following the attack but later crash-landed, claiming the lives of all individuals on board. Although the UN has not confirmed these details, it stated that the assault on the first helicopter might be deemed a war crime under international law.

The recent violence in Upper Nile threatens the unstable peace agreement between President Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, which was established after years of civil conflict resulting in substantial casualties and displacement. The ongoing clashes involve government forces and the White Army, a militia that had previously supported Machar.

Unmiss, in collaboration with both the White Army and the South Sudanese military, had been engaged in evacuating the wounded from the conflict zone. Nicholas Haysom, the head of Unmiss, condemned the attack on his personnel and offered condolences for the tragic loss of life. He emphasized the commitment to ensuring safe passage, which was promised but ultimately violated.

President Kiir confirmed that the deceased general was Gen Majur Dak, who commanded forces in the Nasir region. The situation is compounded by recent arrests of key figures associated with Machar, raising fears of a resurgence of armed conflict. Kiir urged citizens to remain calm, asserting that the government would address the crisis without returning to war.

The situation in South Sudan remains precarious following the UN evacuation attempt disrupted by violence. With multiple casualties reported, including a UN crew member and South Sudanese troops, the events highlight the ongoing instability in the region. As fighting recommences between government forces and the White Army, concerns about a return to civil war grow. The peace agreement between Kiir and Machar continues to face significant challenges, necessitating immediate attention from the international community.

Original Source: www.bbc.com