The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the sharp escalation of violence in South Sudan, where renewed fighting in Jonglei State has left scores dead and forced at least 180,000 people to flee their homes, according to a United Nations (UN) statement. Reports suggest the South Sudanese army has launched a major offensive against opposition forces in the region, prompting widespread displacement and threats to humanitarian operations.
The Secretary-General warned that the violence is endangering civilians already living in extremely fragile conditions. “The escalating conflict will only deepen the suffering of populations who are already vulnerable,” Mr. Guterres said, urging both government and opposition forces to immediately halt military operations, protect civilians, and guarantee humanitarian access.
Aid groups have been ordered to leave several areas where fighting continues, hampering assistance to millions already in need. The UN estimates that two-thirds of South Sudan’s population—roughly nine million people—require some form of humanitarian aid this year. Mr. Guterres called on authorities and armed groups to allow life-saving supplies and protection services to reach affected communities safely.
While South Sudan’s 2018 peace agreement set the stage for a fragile unity government, progress toward national elections has stalled, deepening political tensions. The Secretary-General urged all parties to “seek a political, not military, solution” and resume an inclusive dialogue to restore calm and credibility to the peace process.
Mr. Guterres also welcomed mediation efforts by the African Union and regional bloc IGAD, emphasizing the need for coordinated international support to prevent further deterioration of the crisis and protect civilians caught in the crossfire.
