South Sudan's VP Arrest Risks Renewed Civil War

The detention of South Sudan's First Vice-President Riek Machar has effectively collapsed the 2018 peace deal that ended the country's five-year civil war, according to his party, the SPLM-IO. Following Machar's arrest at his residence in Juba, concerns have escalated regarding the potential for renewed widespread conflict in the nation, which has already faced significant ethnic tensions. The UN peacekeeping mission and human rights officials condemned the arrests, emphasizing a reckless disregard for international law and warning that violence could spiral out of control. The SPLM-IO's deputy chair stated that the detention signifies a serious jeopardy to peace and stability in South Sudan. Observers have noted a high military presence in Juba, and fears of an ethnic war are growing, particularly between Machar's Nuer group and President Kiir's Dinka group. As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation remains tense with calls for restraint from various regional actors.