Escalating Clashes in South Sudan Raise Concerns of Renewed Warfare

IGAD warns that escalating clashes in South Sudan might lead to renewed war, threatening the fragile peace since 2018. Recent violence, including a UN evacuation helicopter attack, raises alarms. While the government claims calmness, the U.S. and Uganda take protective measures amidst growing tensions.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed grave concerns regarding escalating clashes in South Sudan, which pose an imminent risk of renewed warfare. The ongoing violence, particularly between the factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, jeopardizes the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement that concluded a protracted civil war.

Intensifying tensions were notably highlighted by an attack on a United Nations helicopter that was responding to an evacuation mission, resulting in the death of a South Sudanese general and a UN crew member. This incident reflects the deteriorating security situation in the region, raising alarms among international observers.

IGAD pointed to a significant occurrence on March 4 in Nasir, where approximately 6,000 armed members of the White Army, an ethnic Nuer militia allied with Machar, overtook a military base, amplifying fears of instability. The organization characterized South Sudan as “balanced precariously between the promise of peace and the peril of conflict” and urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and de-escalate the situation.

In response to these developments, the South Sudanese government has attempted to mitigate concerns, with the foreign ministry asserting that the nation remains secure and welcoming to visitors and partners. Nevertheless, the United States has reacted by withdrawing non-emergency personnel amidst ongoing armed conflict, while Uganda has deployed special forces to the capital Juba, despite official denials from South Sudanese authorities.

As the risk of widespread violence increases, both regional and international stakeholders are closely observing the dynamics in South Sudan, prompting calls for immediate dialogue and action to preserve the fragile peace established in recent years.

In summary, the escalating violence in South Sudan poses a significant threat to the existing peace agreement established in 2018. The clashes between rival factions could lead to renewed conflict, a situation that IGAD has cautioned against. Despite reassurances from the South Sudanese government, international actors are taking precautionary steps, indicating a precarious balance between peace and potential warfare. Continued monitoring and intervention are essential to maintain stability in the region.

Original Source: newscentral.africa