Jonglei violence raises civilian protection concerns
The U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan said it is alarmed by a worsening political and security climate, condemning renewed fighting in Jonglei State. The commission warned the escalation exposes civilians to death, displacement and deprivation.
UN urges de-escalation and respect for peace accord
The commission called for an immediate de-escalation and for hostilities to stop in civilian-populated areas. It cited airstrikes, ground offensives and other military operations, and urged a return to the pathways and obligations set out in the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
Commission says peace agreement is being eroded
In its statement, the commission argued that deliberate sabotage and the resulting weakening of the peace agreement are directly feeding renewed conflict. It said the consequences are catastrophic for civilian lives, as well as for national stability and the wider region.
Airstrikes and clashes reported across Jonglei counties
Over recent weeks, the commission said intensified hostilities in Jonglei have included direct and indiscriminate attacks affecting civilians. It referenced repeated aerial bombardments by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, clashes with the opposition SPLM/A-IO, and reported mobilization of armed civilian militias.
Humanitarian partners report displacement since December 2025
Humanitarian partners estimate more than 100,000 people have been forcibly displaced across the state since late December 2025. They said those affected are predominantly women, girls, older persons and persons with disabilities, with many fleeing without shelter, food or access to medical care.
UN commission quotes warn of legal obligations
“The protection of civilians is not optional — it is a binding legal obligation of the government,” said Yasmin Sooka, the commission’s chair (U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan). She said renewed airstrikes and restrictions on humanitarian access imposed by parties to the conflict are placing lives at immediate risk.
Reports cite damage to homes, markets and health facilities
The commission said it is deeply alarmed by reports of repeated airstrikes in parts of Jonglei, including Uror, Ayod and Nyirol counties. It said civilians have been killed and injured, while homes, markets and medical facilities were damaged or destroyed, triggering large-scale displacement.
Commission links Jonglei escalation to wider national risk
Commissioner Barney Afako said the developments should not be seen as an isolated incident. “What we are witnessing in Jonglei is not an isolated security incident; it is a dangerous escalation which is manifesting in other parts of the country as well,” Afako said (U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan).
International law standards highlighted by commissioners
The commission stressed that all parties are bound by international humanitarian law and international human rights law. It warned that attacks on civilians or civilian objects, indiscriminate airstrikes, and denial of humanitarian access are prohibited under these standards.
Possible war crimes concern raised in UN warning
“Denying access to medical care, forcing the evacuation of health facilities, or carrying out airstrikes in civilian areas raises serious concerns under international law,” said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández (U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan). He said deliberate or reckless acts could amount to war crimes.
Calls for humanitarian access and renewed engagement
The commission called for political de-escalation, an end to airstrikes in civilian areas, and unconditional humanitarian access. It also urged urgent steps to prevent further spread of the conflict, accountability for violations, and renewed regional and international engagement.
Mandate of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan
Reiterating the stakes, Sooka said, “The fighting must stop now; civilians must be protected” (U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan). The commission is an independent body mandated by the United Nations Human Rights Council.