South Sudan has instructed United Nations staff, aid organizations, and local civilians to leave three counties in Jonglei State as the army prepares to launch a major military campaign against opposition fighters.
The order covers Nyirol, Uror, and Akobo counties and gives residents and personnel only 48 hours to move to safer areas.
The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) released a statement, directing UNMISS personnel and humanitarian workers to vacate the regions ahead of the upcoming operation, called Operation Enduring Peace. The campaign targets members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–in-Opposition.
“All NGO’s and UNMISS personnel operating and working in Nyirol, Uror and Akobo are given 48 hours to leave,” the statement reads.
The army also ordered all civilians in areas controlled by the opposition to evacuate quickly to government-held zones for their own safety.
“All civil populations in SPLIO controlled areas of Nyirol, Uror and Akobo are directed to immediately evacuate for safety to government controlled areas as soon as possible.”
The statement came with a stern warning to armed civilians near opposition positions. Anyone carrying weapons in these areas risks being treated as a military target.
“Armed civilians found loitering in and around SPLIO barracks assembly areas will be considered as legitimate military targets,:” the South Sudan army said.
“Armed civilians not interested in fighting government forces must immediately hand over their weapons to the nearest SSPDF garrisson without further a do.”
Additionally, the army told young people not affiliated with government forces to move with their families and livestock to areas under government control. This move appears aimed at keeping civilians away from combat zones before the offensive begins.
South Sudan has been facing instability since political disputes triggered a civil war in 2013. The conflict has left tens of thousands dead, millions displaced, and the country struggling to maintain peace.
Jonglei State, which shares a border with Ethiopia, has frequently seen clashes, disrupting normal life and cutting off access to essential services like food, healthcare, and shelter.
Humanitarian groups warn that the new military operation may push more people from their homes, adding pressure on aid efforts and making it harder to reach those in urgent need.
