Clashes in South Sudan have displaced 50,000 since February, with rising tensions threatening the fragile peace between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Western governments have offered to mediate the conflict, which has worsened humanitarian conditions, including immediate safety concerns for affected communities.
Clashes between rival factions in South Sudan have resulted in the displacement of at least 50,000 individuals since February. With escalating tensions in the Upper Nile State, President Salva Kiir’s forces have been clashing with First Vice President Riek Machar’s supporters, leading to fears of a potential relapse into civil war. The fragile peace-sharing agreement between the two leaders is increasingly at risk due to these heightened conflicts.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the violence exacerbates the vulnerabilities of already affected communities while disrupting essential services. Anita Kiki Gbeho, an OCHA official, highlighted the dire consequences of such violence on humanitarian efforts. Meanwhile, the Western embassies, including representatives from the United States and the European Union, expressed their readiness to mediate discussions between the conflicting parties.
Recent military actions further escalated the situation, including an airstrike in Nasir County that resulted in at least 20 fatalities, including children. Additionally, 10,000 displaced individuals have sought refuge in Ethiopia, and 23 humanitarian workers were compelled to exit the conflict zone. The closure of essential health units, including cholera treatment facilities, has resulted in further humanitarian crises.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), emphasized that the nation is on the brink of potential civil war, warning of the dangers of escalating violence. He likened South Sudan to neighboring Sudan, where rapid descent into chaos has occurred, urging immediate de-escalation efforts among all involved parties. This ongoing conflict threatens the fragile peace established by a 2018 agreement meant to end years of civil strife that claimed approximately 400,000 lives.
Allegations have flown between the factions, with Kiir’s supporters accusing Machar’s forces of inciting violence in league with the White Army, a militia consisting of armed youths from Machar’s ethnic group. Tensions intensified when a significant number of White Army combatants overran a military camp, leading to further violence, including loss of life during an attempted rescue operation by the United Nations. Western embassies expressed concern for those affected by the recent violence, indicating that many survivors are still unable to reach safe areas.
In summary, the recent clashes in South Sudan have led to significant displacement and increased humanitarian challenges, necessitating urgent international attention and mediation efforts. The ongoing tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar threaten the stability of the region and risk undoing years of peace efforts. Moreover, the violence is adversely impacting vulnerable communities and vital humanitarian services, highlighting the urgent need for de-escalation and dialogue among conflicting parties.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
