South Sudan orders evacuations ahead of major military offensive

The South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) has ordered the immediate evacuation of civilians and aid workers from opposition-held areas in Jonglei State, signaling preparations for a major military operation that threatens to exacerbate the country's protracted humanitarian crisis.

Evacuation Order and Warnings

In a video statement on Sunday, SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang gave "all NGOs and UNMISS personnel operating and working in Nyirol, Uror and Akobo counties... 48 hours to leave." He urged civilians to relocate to government-controlled zones immediately for their safety ahead of "Operation Enduring Peace" against the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO). The army warned that armed civilians found near opposition areas would be considered "legitimate military targets" and called for the surrender of weapons.

UN Concerns and Mass Displacement

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) expressed deep concern over reports that a senior military leader had urged troops to attack civilians in Jonglei State. The mission also stated that escalating fighting between the main parties to a 2018 peace agreement has already displaced over 180,000 people in the region, underscoring the severe human cost of the renewed conflict.

Background of Persistent Conflict

South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has been mired in violence since a civil war erupted in 2013 between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those of his former deputy, Riek Machar. Despite multiple peace agreements, instability persists. Last February, the Nuer ethnic militia known as the White Army seized a town in Upper Nile State, leading to the detention of several opposition figures. Machar and others now face serious charges including treason and crimes against humanity.