Recent clashes in South Sudan have displaced 50,000 people since February, primarily in Nasir County, threatening the ongoing peace agreement. The U.N. has reported fatalities from airstrikes and significant health risks, including cholera outbreaks. Urgent action is required to allow safe humanitarian access for the affected populations.
Since February, clashes in South Sudan have resulted in the displacement of at least 50,000 individuals, according to the United Nations. The conflict, primarily in Nasir County of Upper Nile State, involves forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, posing a significant threat to a precarious peace-sharing agreement.
Anita Kiki Gbeho of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlighted that the ongoing violence has further jeopardized vulnerable communities, disrupting crucial life-saving services. Reports indicate that an airstrike conducted by the government on March 17 resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, including children, as confirmed by area commissioner James Gatluak.
Among the displaced, approximately 10,000 have crossed into Ethiopia, with OCHA noting the exodus has also led to the evacuation of 23 humanitarian workers and the closure of a cholera treatment facility in Nasir. In light of this humanitarian crisis, Gbeho urged all parties to facilitate safe access for humanitarian aid, particularly for women, children, and the elderly.
Additionally, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has reported over 1,300 cases of cholera in Akobo County, emphasizing the severe public health risks associated with the ongoing conflict. The violence threatens the stability of a 2018 peace agreement, which ended a brutal five-year civil war that claimed approximately 400,000 lives.
Accusations have arisen from Kiir’s allies against Machar’s forces, suggesting collusion with the White Army, a group of armed youths from the Nuer ethnic community supporting Machar. Tension escalated earlier this month when approximately 6,000 White Army combatants captured a military encampment in Nasir, culminating in a failed rescue attempt by the United Nations that resulted in fatalities, including a U.N. helicopter pilot and a senior South Sudanese general.
The recent clashes in South Sudan have resulted in a humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands and threatening fragile peace agreements. Urgent international intervention is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly in light of rising violence and public health concerns. The commitment of both government and opposition forces to cease hostilities and allow humanitarian access is crucial for addressing the needs of those affected.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
