As clashes between opposition forces and national troops intensify, reports indicate airstrikes and daily civilian casualties. UN agencies warn that rising insecurity is hindering lifesaving aid, while hunger forecasts worsen and cholera treatment centers struggle with an influx of newly displaced individuals. The renewed violence occurs as South Sudan’s 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement unravels amid stalled reforms, rising political tensions before the planned 2026 elections, and growing pressure from over a million refugees fleeing the brutal war in neighboring Sudan.
WFP convoy attacked, activities suspended
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) suspended all activities in Baliet County, Upper Nile state, after repeated attacks on a humanitarian convoy. Between last Friday and Sunday, a 12-boat convoy carrying over 1,500 metric tonnes of food and relief items was attacked multiple times by armed youth. The cargo was looted despite previous security assurances for safe passage. WFP stated the suspension would continue until the safety of its staff, partners, and contractors is ensured, and authorities recover the stolen supplies. The organization urged all parties to respect humanitarian workers and protect essential aid delivery resources.
Aid access under threat
The convoy attack highlights a broader collapse in humanitarian access, especially in Jonglei state, where renewed fighting since late December has intensified clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and the South Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition across multiple counties. According to the UN relief coordination office, OCHA, fighting and airstrikes have displaced approximately 280,000 people since late December, including more than 235,000 across Jonglei. Many have fled to areas with limited water, sanitation, and health services, raising the risk of disease outbreaks. Humanitarian partners report that at least seven aid facilities in Jonglei have been looted or damaged, with assets confiscated and aid workers intimidated, leading to the suspension of operations in several areas.
Hospitals hit, services halted
The medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported that government forces bombarded its hospital in Lankien, Jonglei State, on the night of 3 February, destroying the main warehouse and most crucial medical supplies. One MSF staff member sustained minor injuries. In a separate incident the same day, MSF’s health facility in Pieri was looted by unknown attackers, forcing staff to flee. The violence has left around 250,000 people without healthcare, as the organization was the only provider in the area.
Hunger and disease risks rising
UN agencies warn that escalating conflict is expected to significantly worsen food insecurity, particularly in northern Jonglei and Upper Nile states. Projections indicate the number of counties facing emergency-level hunger (IPC Phase 4) between February and May will more than double, with some households at risk of slipping into catastrophic conditions (IPC Phase 5). Insecurity has already forced WFP to pause plans to pre-position 12,000 metric tons of food ahead of the rainy season in Jonglei, raising concerns that access will further deteriorate once roads become impassable. Since September 2024, South Sudan has recorded nearly 98,000 cholera cases and more than 1,600 deaths, with Jonglei among the worst affected, overwhelming treatment centers.
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