A United Nations helicopter attempting to evacuate South Sudanese troops was attacked in the northern town of Nasir on Friday, March 7 resulting in the death of a crew member and several soldiers, including a general.
The incident occurred while heavy clashes between national forces and the White Army militia, a group linked to forces loyal to First Vice President Riek Machar, occurred.
UN Condemns Attack as Potential War Crime
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), condemned the attack, calling it “utterly abhorrent” and stating that it may constitute a war crime under international law.
Haysom expressed regret over the deaths of those the UN was attempting to evacuate, despite receiving assurances of safe passage. He urged an investigation to identify and hold the perpetrators accountable.
Background of the Conflict in Nasir
The White Army, primarily composed of the Nuer ethnic group, fought alongside Machar’s forces during the 2013-2018 civil war against troops loyal to President Salva Kiir, who are predominantly from the Dinka ethnic group.
Machar’s spokesperson revealed that security forces had arrested several senior officials allied with Machar, including the petroleum minister, the peacebuilding minister, and the deputy head of the army. These detentions have raised concerns about the stability of the peace agreement.
While the government has yet to comment on the arrests, and Machar’s party has denied involvement in the Nasir clashes, President Salva Kiir is expected to address the nation on Friday afternoon, potentially providing clarity on the government’s response to the attack and the broader security situation.
