On January 25, South Sudan’s military issued orders for civilians, aid workers, and United Nations personnel to evacuate opposition-controlled areas in Jonglei state, signaling the start of a new offensive in Nyirol, Uror, and Akobo counties. The escalation comes amid intensified fighting between government forces, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), and armed youth groups known as the White Army, displacing more than 100,000 people since December 2025.
Violence has spread to other regions, with civilians facing repeated displacement, aerial bombardments, and severe restrictions on humanitarian access, including a no-fly zone imposed by the government in opposition-held areas since January 1. The crisis is compounded by flooding, food insecurity, and limited access to health services, placing further pressure on aid organizations trying to reach affected populations.
International humanitarian law obliges parties to give civilians warnings where possible, but such directives do not justify indiscriminate attacks or unlawful forced displacement. Older people, those with disabilities, and anyone unable or unwilling to flee are particularly vulnerable. The situation is exacerbated by incendiary rhetoric from senior officials, including Gen. Johnson Olony, who reportedly urged forces to “spare no lives… not even the elderly… not even a chicken,” language considered an incitement to commit war crimes. Historical patterns in South Sudan have shown that civilians unable to flee have been shot, burned, or abandoned to die during previous outbreaks of violence.
Targeting civilians and destroying or looting civilian property constitute war crimes, and commanders and superiors are legally responsible for preventing or punishing such acts. While the government has since walked back General Olony’s comments, it must ensure credible disciplinary measures are enforced.
The UN Mission in South Sudan is under pressure to reduce its footprint but should maintain its presence where feasible, intensify long-range patrols, and provide regular reporting on abuses. Urgent, coordinated action from regional and international actors is critical to prevent further violence and protect civilians from escalating atrocities in South Sudan.
