Update on the Crisis in South Sudan
UN Helicopter Attacked During Critical Evacuation Effort, Casualties Reported
As per previous African Security Analysis report on South Sudan (Escalating Security Crisis in South Sudan – 7 March 2025), a United Nations helicopter engaged in a vital evacuation mission in Nasir, Upper Nile State, came under fire earlier today. The attack resulted in the tragic death of one crew member and serious injuries to two others. Additionally, several members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), including a wounded general, lost their lives during the operation.
The evacuation, coordinated by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), was undertaken to ease tensions in the region after recent clashes between SSPDF forces and militia fighters from the White Army. These confrontations have led to extensive casualties and widespread displacement of civilians.
Urgent need for assistance
Amid escalating violence, the SSPDF commander loyal to President Salva Kiir issued an urgent plea for assistance in Nasir. General Majur, along with 11 officers, sought refuge inside a tank to avoid capture by the advancing White Army. Following negotiations, the White Army granted permission for the evacuation of General Majur and his officers by UN forces to Juba.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, strongly condemned the attack in a statement. “This assault on UNMISS personnel is deplorable and may constitute a war crime under international law. We deeply mourn the loss of our colleague and offer our heartfelt condolences to their loved ones,” he said.
Haysom further expressed regret over the deaths of those UNMISS sought to rescue, particularly given the assurances of safe passage that had been secured. He called for an independent investigation to identify and hold those responsible accountable.
UNMISS has issued a renewed call for all parties to immediately cease hostilities and highlighted the urgent need for dialogue to resolve the situation peacefully. The mission has also appealed to South Sudan’s leadership to act swiftly to prevent further deterioration of security conditions in Nasir and across the nation.
Discover More
Benin: Wadagni Opens a Strategic Reset with the Sahel Juntas
Benin’s new president, Romuald Wadagni, has moved quickly to reset relations with Niger, Burkina Faso, and the wider AES. His early diplomacy marks a clear shift from the confrontational posture of the Patrice Talon era, particularly toward Niger, where bilateral relations had deteriorated sharply after the 2023 coup.
Burkina Faso: Arrest of Influential Imam Exposes Regime Sensitivity to Religious Authority
The detention of Imam Mohamed Ishaq Kindo marks a significant escalation in Burkina Faso’s internal control environment. What began as a dispute over proposed regulation of religious practice has moved quickly into a broader test of the Traoré government’s tolerance for independent authority, public mobilisation, and criticism from constituencies that are not easily dismissed as political opposition.
REQUEST FOR INTEREST
How can we help you de-risk Africa?
Please enter your contact information and your requirements and needs for us to come back to you with a relevant proposal.
