UN Secretary-General Condemns Escalating Violence in South Sudan, Urges Immediate Cessation of Hostilities

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the escalating violence in South Sudan and called on all parties to immediately cease military action and de-escalate tensions through dialogue.

UN Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq, in a statement, noted that the rising violence in South Sudan has created an extreme humanitarian crisis, with more than two-thirds of the population requiring life-saving humanitarian assistance.

The statement indicated that civilians are in grave danger as continuous attacks, lack of humanitarian and health facilities, looting, restrictions on access to major supply routes, and insecurity are affecting humanitarian aid and essential services.

The statement mentioned that since the end of December, at least 11 health facilities in Jonglei State have been attacked, disrupting life-saving services. It was also reported that 12 vehicles, including an ambulance, were seized during the attacks.

Last week alone, incidents across the country included repeated attacks on the World Food Programme (WFP) office, an airstrike on a hospital run by Médecins Sans Frontières, arson attacks on a Save the Children field office, and the destruction of a health center.

The statement condemned acts against medical and humanitarian operations and urged an immediate halt to such activities.

According to the United Nations, conflict across the country this year alone has displaced more than 370,000 people.

The Secretary-General urged for a halt to military operations, de-escalation through dialogue, ensuring the safety of civilians in compliance with international law, maintaining humanitarian access, and ensuring the security of aid workers and UN peacekeepers.