Humanitarian Crisis in South Sudan: MSF Workers Unaccounted For Amid Escalating Violence

Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders, MSF) has reported that 26 of its workers remain unaccounted for following violent attacks on medical facilities in South Sudan's Jonglei State. The incidents occurred on February 3, 2026, when a hospital in Lankien was bombed by government forces, and another facility in Pieri was raided by unknown assailants. This violence has contributed to the displacement of approximately 280,000 people in the region since December 2025.

WDIV - ClickOnDetroitMSF Concerned for Unaccounted Staff in Lankien and Pieri26 MSF staff members remain missing in Lankien, South Sudan

The Jonglei State has been a long-standing site of inter-communal violence and political insurgency. The recent escalation began when opposition forces captured several government outposts, prompting a counteroffensive from the government that recaptured most of the territory. This cycle of violence has severely disrupted humanitarian operations, with MSF facilities attacked ten times in the past year.

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The attacks have forced MSF to suspend medical activities for around 250,000 people in Lankien and Pieri. Communication networks in these areas are limited, complicating efforts to locate the missing staff. Many MSF workers fled the violence with their families and are now displaced, facing dire conditions with little access to food, water, or medical services. Yashovardhan, MSF's head of mission in South Sudan, emphasized the toll this violence has taken on healthcare services and the individuals who provide them.

26 MSF staff members remain missing in Lankien, South Sudan

The humanitarian crisis poses a significant threat to regional stability, particularly for neighboring Kenya, which is closely monitoring the situation. The potential for a renewed influx of refugees into Kenyan camps, such as Kakuma, is a pressing concern. The violence not only threatens to destabilize South Sudan but also risks spilling over into Kenya, exacerbating existing security issues.

MSF Concerned for Unaccounted Staff in Lankien and Pieri

The international humanitarian community has expressed alarm over the targeting of medical facilities and personnel, which constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law. There is growing pressure on the transitional government in Juba to restore order and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers. A Nairobi-based humanitarian analyst stated, "The targeting of medical staff is not just a tragedy; it is a horrific war crime that suffocates the last breath of hope for thousands."

MSF Concerned for Unaccounted Staff in Lankien and Pieri

MSF has reiterated its commitment to supporting affected communities and staff during this crisis. The organization has initiated emergency support in areas where displaced individuals have sought refuge. However, the ongoing violence continues to hinder their operations and the delivery of essential medical care.

26 MSF staff members remain missing in Lankien, South Sudan

• “This violence has taken an unbearable toll not only on healthcare services but on the very people who kept them running.” — Yashovardhan, Head of Mission, MSF South Sudan

26 MSF staff members remain missing in Lankien, South Sudan

• “The targeting of medical staff is not just a tragedy; it is a horrific war crime that suffocates the last breath of hope for thousands.” — Humanitarian Analyst, Nairobi

MSF Concerned for Unaccounted Staff in Lankien and Pieri

The situation in South Sudan remains critical, with urgent calls for accountability and protection for humanitarian workers as the crisis unfolds.

MSF Concerned for Unaccounted Staff in Lankien and Pieri