UN chief Guterres condemns escalating violence in South Sudan

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Guterres urged all parties to “immediately & decisively halt all military operations, de-escalate tensions through dialogue, uphold international law, protect civilians” and ensure safe access for humanitarian workers. The appeal comes amid reports of widespread attacks on aid convoys and medical facilities that are crippling essential services.

Humanitarian operations under direct attack

UN officials report that the violence has specifically targeted the humanitarian response system. At least 11 healthcare centers in Jonglei State have been attacked since late December, with incidents including the looting of 12 vehicles, among them an ambulance. Recent weeks have also seen repeated assaults on a World Food Program convoy, an airstrike on a Doctors Without Borders hospital, and the burning of a Save the Children field office. "This clear disregard for medical and humanitarian operations is unacceptable and must stop," stated UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq.

Mass displacement and health crisis

The direct targeting of aid groups has exacerbated a severe civilian crisis. Fighting has displaced more than 370,000 people since the start of the year, with over 280,000 fleeing violence in Jonglei State alone. This mass displacement is occurring alongside a rapidly worsening cholera outbreak, creating a perfect storm where vulnerable populations are cut off from the very medical and food assistance they desperately need.

A call for global attention and regional stability

The crisis in South Sudan represents a major failure to protect civilians and uphold international humanitarian law. For nations like Türkiye, which actively engages in humanitarian diplomacy and provides aid in conflict zones, the breakdown in South Sudan underscores the global imperative for sustained diplomatic engagement and support for UN peacekeeping efforts. Restoring security for aid delivery is not only a moral necessity but a critical step toward preventing further regional destabilization.