UN Helicopter Attack Highlights Escalating Tensions in South Sudan

A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The incident resulted in casualties, with Kiir reaffirming his stance against returning to war. Authorities have detained several government officials as peace efforts remain a priority in the region.

On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid increasing tensions. President Salva Kiir emphasized that the country cannot afford to return to war. Disputes between Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar revolve around a fragile power-sharing agreement, and clashes have been reported in Upper Nile State.

The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that its helicopter came under fire while attempting to extract South Sudanese army members, resulting in the death of one crew member and serious injuries to two others. Tragically, a South Sudanese army general and several officers were killed during the failed mission.

President Kiir urged the public to remain calm, reiterating, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take the law into their hands.” He affirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining peace despite the challenges.

Tensions between Kiir and Machar have escalated following the end of the civil war in 2018, with accusations of incitement of violence exchanged. Following the helicopter attack, Machar’s office condemned the “barbaric act” and emphasized the continued priority of peace restoration efforts in the region.

Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, decried the attack on personnel as “utterly abhorrent” and suggested it could qualify as a war crime under international law. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric called for an investigation to identify those responsible for the assault.

In response to the escalated situation, the South Sudanese government has detained several officials including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Army Chief General Gabriel Duop Lam, as the conflict has led to significant civilian displacement and casualties throughout the country.

The attack on the UN helicopter highlights the precarious security situation in South Sudan, where political tensions threaten to escalate into violence. President Salva Kiir’s assertions against a return to war contrast sharply with ongoing conflicts and accusations between political leaders. With UN officials calling for accountability and peace efforts being prioritized, the international community watches to ensure stability in this fragile nation.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com