United Nations Helicopter Attacked in South Sudan, Resulting in Casualties
A United Nations helicopter came under fire while attempting to evacuate South Sudanese troops in the town of Nasir on Friday, resulting in the death of a crew member and several soldiers, including a general. The incident occurred following heavy clashes between national forces and the White Army militia, a group associated with President Salva Kiir’s government and his rival, First Vice President Riek Machar.
The head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Nicholas Haysom, condemned the attack as “utterly abhorrent” and possibly constituting a war crime under international law. He called for an investigation to hold those responsible accountable for the violence. Despite assurances of safe passage, the crew members and soldiers being airlifted were tragically killed in the ambush.
President Kiir’s office announced that he would address the nation in response to the incident. The White Army, predominantly comprised of the Nuer ethnic group, had previously fought alongside Machar’s forces in the civil war from 2013 to 2018. Recent arrests of senior military officials allied with Machar have raised concerns about the fragile peace process in the country.
Although Machar’s party denied involvement in the fighting in Nasir, the government has not commented on the detentions. The situation in South Sudan remains tense, with ongoing violence threatening the stability of the region. The international community is closely monitoring developments and calling for swift action to prevent further bloodshed.
