South Sudan’s authorities ordered the evacuation of civilians and United Nations personnel from parts of Jonglei state on January 27 as escalating violence and insecurity raised fears of further clashes, according to government officials and UN sources. The move followed reports of armed confrontations and growing tensions between rival groups in the region.
Local officials said the evacuation was issued as a precautionary measure to protect civilians, aid workers and peacekeepers after intelligence assessments warned of potential attacks. The affected areas have experienced repeated cycles of intercommunal violence, often linked to cattle raiding, political rivalries and the widespread availability of weapons.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan confirmed that it had begun relocating staff and coordinating with humanitarian partners to ensure safety while continuing to monitor the situation. Aid agencies warned that the evacuation could disrupt the delivery of food, medical care and emergency assistance to already vulnerable communities.
Jonglei is one of South Sudan’s most volatile states and has been the scene of deadly clashes in recent years, displacing tens of thousands of people. Humanitarian groups said renewed instability risks worsening food insecurity and displacement at a time when millions across the country already depend on aid.
South Sudanese authorities called for calm and urged community leaders to engage in dialogue, while international partners reiterated appeals for restraint and protection of civilians as efforts continue to stabilize the fragile country.
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