News|PoliticsSouth Sudan launches offensive against opposition forces: What to knowUN warns against risk of mass violence after reports a senior military leader urged troops to kill civilians in Jonglei state.
South Sudan’s military has initiated a major operation against opposition forces. This follows recent territorial losses and raises concerns regarding civilian safety. The army has instructed civilians to evacuate three counties in Jonglei state and has…
South Sudan’s military has initiated a major operation against opposition forces. This follows recent territorial losses and raises concerns regarding civilian safety. The army has instructed civilians to evacuate three counties in Jonglei state and has given aid organizations a 48-hour notice to leave the area.
Operation Enduring Peace is designed to recapture towns recently taken by opposition factions and to re-establish law and order. According to Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny, the country is not at war, but the operation aims to halt the opposition's advancement.
There have been reports of aggressive rhetoric from military commanders, including directives to harm civilians and destroy property, which have drawn criticism from international bodies like the United Nations.
Since December, opposition forces have captured several government outposts in Jonglei. Some of these forces are aligned with opposition leader Riek Machar, while others are part of the ethnic Nuer militia known as the White Army.
The army has instructed civilians to evacuate three counties in Jonglei state and has given aid organizations a 48-hour notice to leave the area.
Riek Machar, South Sudan's First Vice President, was suspended following attacks on a military garrison. He faces charges including treason, which some observers claim are politically motivated. Machar's trial is ongoing in Juba, and forces loyal to him have declared the 2018 peace agreement void.
The deployment of troops to Nuer areas led by General Johnson Olony has been controversial due to existing tensions between the Shilluk and Nuer communities. This deployment has been described as potentially inflammatory, with historical conflicts exacerbating the situation.
The United Nations and other international organizations have expressed serious concern over developments in South Sudan, citing the increased risk of violence against civilians. Government representatives have acknowledged the concerning rhetoric but claim it does not reflect official policy.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
