Escalating Conflicts in South Sudan and Sudan: A Dual Crisis

On January 27, 2026, the South Sudanese government issued a call for opposition forces to cease hostilities, citing a significant rebel advance that threatens to reignite civil war. Clashes between government troops and fighters loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) have intensified in Jonglei state, leading to mass displacement. The United Nations reported that the scale of these confrontations is unprecedented since 2017, with at least 180,000 people already displaced. The government claims to have repelled rebel advances, but escalating hate speech is exacerbating ethnic tensions, risking further civilian involvement in the conflict. The civil war from 2013 to 2018, primarily fought along ethnic lines, resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths. Currently, Riek Machar, the opposition leader, is on trial for treason related to a militia attack last year, which he denies.

South Sudan Government Says Rebel Advance Poses 'Serious Threat to Peace'South Sudan government says rebel advance poses 'serious threat to peace'Sudan's military says it breaks paramilitary RSF's siege of key town

In a parallel crisis, Sudan's military announced on January 26, 2026, that it has broken a nearly two-year siege imposed by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the town of Dilling in South Kordofan. This military operation is seen as a critical move to regain control over vital supply lines. The RSF has been engaged in conflict with the military since April 2023, following a power struggle that escalated into widespread violence. The ongoing war has resulted in over 40,000 deaths, with some estimates suggesting the actual toll could be significantly higher. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated, with more than 14 million people displaced and parts of the country facing famine conditions.

Sudan's military says it breaks paramilitary RSF's siege of key townSudan’s military says it breaks the paramilitary RSF’s siege of a key townSudan's army says it breaks siege of southern city, survivors recount hunger and death

Survivors from the besieged areas, such as al-Dalanj, have recounted harrowing experiences of hunger and death. Reports indicate that residents resorted to eating leaves and animal skins, with many children succumbing to starvation. The siege has led to a severe shortage of medicines and essential supplies, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The UN has warned that the situation in South Kordofan mirrors the dire conditions previously observed in al-Fashir, where the RSF had previously gained control.

Sudan's army says it breaks siege of southern city, survivors recount hunger and death

The South Sudanese government has emphasized the need for peace, urging opposition forces to halt their advances to prevent further escalation of violence. Meanwhile, the Sudanese military has claimed significant victories against the RSF, asserting that their forces inflicted heavy losses on the paramilitary group. However, the RSF has not publicly responded to these claims.

Sudan’s military says it breaks the paramilitary RSF’s siege of a key town

Critics of both the South Sudanese government and the Sudanese military have raised concerns about the humanitarian implications of ongoing conflicts. Human rights organizations have highlighted the need for accountability regarding the violence and the urgent requirement for humanitarian assistance to affected populations.

Sudan's military says it breaks paramilitary RSF's siege of key town

While the Sudanese military claims to have broken the RSF's siege, there are discrepancies regarding the actual conditions on the ground, particularly concerning the humanitarian situation in Dilling and al-Dalanj. The UN's inability to declare famine in some areas due to a lack of data raises questions about the accuracy of the reported conditions.

Sudan's army says it breaks siege of southern city, survivors recount hunger and death

• “The mission also warns that escalating hate speech is fuelling ethnic tensions and risks drawing civilian communities into the conflict,” — South Sudan Government Spokesman

South Sudan Government Says Rebel Advance Poses 'Serious Threat to Peace'

• “We left because of the hunger and humiliation,” — Haja Bahareldin, al-Dalanj Survivor

Sudan's army says it breaks siege of southern city, survivors recount hunger and death

• “Our forces inflicted heavy losses on the enemy, both personal and equipment,” — Sudanese Military Statement

Sudan's military says it breaks paramilitary RSF's siege of key town

This dual crisis in South Sudan and Sudan underscores the fragility of peace in the region and the urgent need for international attention and humanitarian aid.

Sudan's military says it breaks paramilitary RSF's siege of key town