Feb 2, 2018(Nyamilepedia) — South Sudan’s midwife, major partner and donor, the United States of America, has finally declared arms restrictions on the world’s youngest nation.
For the last 4 years, South Sudan has created one of the worst crises and the largest humanitarian crises in the world at the watch of the International Community and the United Nations.
According to Heather Nauert, the Spokesperson of the U.S. Department of State, the States will now begin to implement arms restrictions on the export of defense articles and defense services into South Sudan.
“The United States is appalled by the continuing violence in South Sudan that has created one of Africa’s worst humanitarian crises.” Reads part of the statement.
“The government and armed opposition, despite signing the December 21 Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities and ongoing efforts by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to advance peace – and despite the suffering of their own people – have continued the use of military force to seek political advantage.” The statement continued.
The U.S. is appalled that South Sudan has displaced over 4.2 millions and 1.5 million others remain on the brink of famine yet Salva Kiir and armed Opposition continue to wage war for political reasons.
“As a result of the conflict, 1.5 million people are now on the brink of famine, despite enormous efforts by the United States and other donors since the conflict began in 2013 to stave off famine and save lives. Approximately 2.4 million South Sudanese have fled as refugees to neighboring countries and 1.9 million South Sudanese are internally displaced.” Said Heather Nauert, the Spokesperson.
“The government and armed opposition have continued offensive military actions, and the government obstructs the UN peacekeeping mission from fulfilling its mandate. Aid workers – at least 95 since the current conflict started in December 2013 – continue to be killed trying to help the victims of the warring parties’ actions.” She continued.
“In response to this continued violence and brutality against civilians and humanitarian workers, the United States is enacting restrictions on arms transfers with South Sudan.” Heather Announces arms restriction on South Sudan.
The United States will amend its arms regulatory regime known as The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to fit arms embargo on South Sudan with hopes that the United Nations, IGAD, Canada, EU, China and TROIKA countries may follow suit.
“Specifically, the Department of State will amend the International Traffic in Arms Regulations to update the defense trade policy toward South Sudan by application of a policy of denial, with limited exceptions, on the export of defense articles and defense services to South Sudan, including all parties involved in the conflict.” Reads part of the statement released by the U.S Department of State.
“We urge all countries, including South Sudan’s neighbors, to promote peace and save innocent lives by cutting off the flow of defense articles and defense services to South Sudan and to halt support to actors who are working to destabilize the country. We encourage IGAD and the African Union to consider sanctions measures against those who undermine the peace process.” The statement further reads.
The United States calls on all members of the United Nations to adopt and support their push for an arms embargo on South Sudan.
“Additionally, the United States is seeking support for a UN Security Council embargo on all arms flows into South Sudan and we urge all UNSC members to join us in supporting this action. The message must be clear – the United States, the region, and the international community will not stand idly by as innocent South Sudanese civilians are murdered. We will continue to take actions against those who foment violence and obstruct the peace process.” The statement concludes.
