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| UNMISS Press Release |
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has issued an urgent appeal for an immediate cessation of hostilities following renewed clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO).
Fighting has been reported in areas south of Juba, including Rejaf and Wunaliat, as well as in Upper Nile State, where armed groups continue to mobilize.
Rising Violence and Humanitarian Concerns
The situation is rapidly deteriorating, with reports of aerial bombardments targeting civilian areas. Some attacks allegedly involved highly flammable liquid-based devices that intensify explosions, causing significant casualties and injuries. UNMISS has warned that the violence threatens to plunge the country back into large-scale conflict, reversing years of peacebuilding efforts.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, stressed that South Sudan’s leaders must recommit to the Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS) by adhering to the ceasefire, resolving grievances through dialogue, and working towards a unified government.
"To prevent a relapse into civil war, the parties must uphold their commitments and prioritize peace," he said.
International Efforts to Broker Peace
The UN is engaging in diplomatic efforts alongside key national, regional, and international partners, including:
African Union (AU)
Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC)
Troika (United States, United Kingdom, and Norway)
UN Security Council and AU Peace and Security Council
These actors are pressing for urgent de-escalation, civilian protection, and a renewed commitment to peaceful dialogue.
Call for Leadership and National Unity
UNMISS has urged President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar to demonstrate leadership by meeting to resolve political differences and making a public statement reaffirming their commitment to peace. Haysom emphasized that their actions will determine whether South Sudan remains on the path to stability or descends into another devastating conflict.
"This will prove that their priority is to put the interests of their people ahead of their own by preventing a return to widespread conflict that will devastate not only South Sudan but the entire region," Haysom said.
What This Means for South Sudan
The recent escalation raises concerns over South Sudan’s fragile peace process, which has faced multiple setbacks, including delayed elections, unresolved security arrangements, and ongoing inter-communal violence. If hostilities continue, the humanitarian crisis that is ready worsened by flooding, food insecurity, and displacement will likely deteriorate further.
As diplomatic efforts continue, all eyes are on South Sudan’s leadership and their willingness to take decisive action to prevent further bloodshed.
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