UN Chief Warns of Worsening Violence and Humanitarian Crisis in South Sudan
HAMILTON, Canada — January 29, 2026
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over rising violence in South Sudan, warning that renewed fighting is worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis and forcing large numbers of civilians from their homes.
Rising Violence Sparks Alarm at the UN
In a statement released on Thursday, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said Guterres is deeply troubled by the continued escalation of violence, particularly in Jonglei State. The recent clashes have caused numerous deaths and injuries and have displaced an estimated 180,000 people.
Guterres is especially alarmed by inflammatory rhetoric targeting specific communities. He also voiced concern over announcements of expanded military operations, warning that such actions will further endanger civilians who already face extreme vulnerability.
Humanitarian Situation Continues to Deteriorate
The UN chief also highlighted the broader humanitarian impact of the violence. According to reports from the South Sudanese government, fighting displaced nearly 250,000 civilians during the first weeks of 2026 alone.
Guterres stressed that continued instability threatens access to food, healthcare, and shelter for millions of people across the country.
Call for Immediate De-Escalation
Guterres urged both the government of South Sudan and opposition forces to take immediate steps to halt all military operations. He called on all parties to de-escalate tensions through inclusive political dialogue rather than armed confrontation.
He emphasized that South Sudan’s crisis requires a political solution, not a military one. In this context, he urged leaders to agree on a consensus-based roadmap for the final year of the transition period to ensure credible national elections.
Regional Efforts Receive UN Support
The secretary-general welcomed ongoing mediation efforts by the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). He also encouraged neighboring countries to strengthen their support for inclusive dialogue aimed at restoring stability.
Longstanding Conflict and Political Divisions
South Sudan gained independence in July 2011. However, the country descended into civil war in December 2013 after President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed then–Vice President Riek Machar, accusing him of planning a coup.
Although leaders signed a peace agreement in 2018 and later formed a transitional unity government, political tensions and armed clashes have continued.
Fighting between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) has intensified since December, particularly in northern Jonglei. Oyet Nathaniel, deputy leader of the SPLM-IO, leads the opposition forces involved.
Tensions deepened further in early 2025, exposing divisions within the transitional government. Clashes first erupted in Western Equatoria State in January before spreading north.
First Vice President Riek Machar has remained under house arrest since March 2025 and is currently facing trial.
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