Clashes in South Sudan have displaced 50,000 individuals since February. The U.N. warns of increased risks to vulnerable populations as Western nations propose mediation. Tensions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar threaten a fragile power-sharing agreement, with recent violence resulting in numerous casualties. Immediate dialogue is urged to prevent a relapse into civil war.
Recent clashes between rival forces in South Sudan have resulted in the displacement of at least 50,000 individuals since February, according to reports from the United Nations. The situation has escalated in the northeastern Upper Nile State, where tensions between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar threaten an already fragile power-sharing agreement.
The current violence has led to the arrest of over 20 allies of Machar, including significant government and military figures. Anita Kiki Gbeho, a representative from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), warned that this violence exacerbates the vulnerability of communities and disrupts critical life-saving services.
In response to the crisis, several Western embassies, including those from the United States and the European Union, have expressed their willingness to mediate discussions between Kiir and Machar. They have called for both leaders to engage in dialogue to mitigate the tensions and prevent further escalation.
On a recent Monday, an airstrike by the South Sudanese government in Nasir County resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, which included children. This area is known to be a stronghold for supporters of Machar, highlighting the ongoing conflict’s tragic consequences.
OCHA reported that approximately 10,000 of those displaced have fled to Ethiopia, and humanitarian operations in the region are taking a toll, as 23 humanitarian workers have been evacuated and critical healthcare facilities, such as a cholera treatment unit, have been closed.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), noted that the country is at risk of descending back into civil war. He drew parallels to neighboring Sudan, emphasizing the potential for rapid escalation into catastrophic war. Haysom urged all parties involved to de-escalate tensions promptly to prevent the region from experiencing another conflict.
The ongoing clashes in South Sudan have significantly affected thousands, leading to widespread displacement and threatening humanitarian efforts. With pressure mounting from Western nations for dialogue, there remains a critical need for immediate action to prevent a return to civil war and safeguard the region’s stability.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
