Thousands Flee South Sudan as UN Warns of Return to Full-Blown Civil War
Thousands of people are fleeing South Sudan’s Jonglei state. They are escaping the town of Akobo and surrounding areas. The army says it has intensified strikes on its enemies to regain control. This latest fighting has sparked a UN warning. Officials fear a possible return to full-blown civil war. The world’s youngest nation faces its darkest hour since independence.
Civilians Caught in Crossfire
Nyawan Koang, 30, fled with her five children. They walked for two days to reach the village of Duk. She lost both parents when an air strike hit their hut. “Fire came from the sky and burned them,” she told the BBC. Fighting between government forces and opposition loyal to First Vice-President Riek Machar has displaced over 280,000 people since December. Machar has been suspended and is under house arrest awaiting trial for treason .
War Crimes Allegations
A UN inquiry found government forces have carried out widespread attacks on civilians, including unlawful killings and indiscriminate aerial bombardment of civilian homes and medical facilities. These acts may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The conflict has exacerbated dire humanitarian needs. According to the World Food Programme, 60% of Jonglei’s two million people face hunger. Across South Sudan, 10 million out of 14 million people need food aid.
Aid Agencies Forced to Withdraw
Save the Children has suspended operations in Akobo East, leaving about 100,000 children without essential services. More than 11 health facilities have been rendered non-functional by looting and destruction. “South Sudanese people are exhausted,” said Adham Affandy, WFP’s acting country director. “They want peace”.
