South Sudan Clashes Displace 50,000 Amid Fears of Civil War

Clashes in South Sudan have displaced over 50,000 people since February, raising fears of a return to civil war. The violence, primarily in Upper Nile State between forces loyal to President Kiir and First Vice President Machar, threatens the 2018 peace agreement. Humanitarian efforts are severely compromised, with rising cholera cases and reduced aid capacity.

Recent clashes in South Sudan have resulted in the displacement of over 50,000 individuals since February, as reported by a UN agency. The escalating violence primarily involves forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar in the northeastern Upper Nile State, raising concerns about the stability of their fragile peace agreement.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated that the ongoing violence poses a severe risk to already vulnerable communities, with life-saving services being suspended. Reports also indicate that an airstrike in Nasir County caused the death of at least 20 people, including children. Furthermore, 10,000 displaced persons have sought refuge in Ethiopia, with humanitarian efforts significantly hampered as 23 workers have had to leave the area and a cholera treatment unit in Nasir has been closed.

Nicholas Haysom, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, warned that the nation is on the verge of returning to civil war, threatening to reverse years of peace progress. In light of recent developments in neighboring Sudan, he emphasized the urgency for all parties to de-escalate tensions to prevent further conflict.

The humanitarian situation is dire with rising cholera cases reported in Akobo County. Aid organizations like Doctors Without Borders face significant operational challenges due to cuts in funding from the United States. Medical staff, limited in resources, express deep concern for the welfare of patients and the broader implications for displaced individuals, noting that hope is dwindling amid worsening conditions.

Fighting between factions jeopardizes the 2018 peace agreement that sought to end a devastating civil war, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 400,000 people. Accusations are being exchanged, with Kiir’s supporters alleging that Machar’s forces are inciting violence, particularly from the White Army, a group comprised of armed youths from the Nuer ethnic group.

The recent clashes in South Sudan have led to significant displacement and threaten the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by ongoing violence and reductions in aid, raising alarms about the potential for renewed civil war. Immediate action is needed to de-escalate tensions and revive humanitarian support to avert further suffering among affected populations.

Original Source: jordantimes.com