Humanitarian Crisis in South Sudan: Aid Blockades and Displacement

Since December 2025, South Sudan has witnessed intensified clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA/IO) in the northeastern Jonglei state. This conflict has resulted in the displacement of at least 280,000 individuals, many fleeing government bombardments and fearing abuses from both military factions. Following evacuation orders issued by the government, indiscriminate aerial bombardments targeted areas where civilians were instructed to vacate, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that approximately 110,000 people have sought refuge in neighboring Ethiopia, while many others remain in precarious conditions within South Sudan.

Humanitarian organizations have faced severe restrictions in delivering aid due to both government and opposition forces obstructing access. The United Nations and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported multiple incidents where humanitarian facilities were attacked or looted. For instance, on February 3, government bombardments struck an MSF hospital in Lankien, injuring staff and destroying medical supplies. Additionally, a no-flight zone imposed by the government in opposition-held areas has hindered the delivery of essential supplies and the evacuation of critically ill patients. The situation has led to the suspension of numerous health facilities, with reports of at least 58 deaths among displaced populations due to lack of food and medical care.

In a concerning development, local authorities have issued contradictory orders that further complicate humanitarian efforts. For example, the opposition-aligned county commissioner of Ulang warned that aid agencies accessing government-controlled areas would be deemed aligned with the government, risking their operational status. This has created an environment where humanitarian assistance is not only obstructed but also politicized, leaving vulnerable populations without necessary support.

The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis have raised questions about the effectiveness of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Established to support the country's transition to independence, the mission has faced significant challenges, including a reduction in personnel and resources due to funding issues, particularly from the United States. The mission's capacity to conduct protection patrols has been reduced by 40%, and numerous human rights monitoring missions have been canceled. The recent death of UNMISS chief Nicholas Haysom has further complicated the mission's operations, as his successor, Anita Kiki Gbeho, takes over during a critical period.

Human Rights Watch

Critics argue that the international community must take urgent action to support UNMISS and ensure it can fulfill its mandate to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian assistance. The UN's peacekeeping chief, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, has emphasized the need for member states to provide critical funding and support to maintain the mission's operational capabilities. Any reduction in the mission's mandate could have dire consequences for the already vulnerable civilian population in South Sudan.

Human Rights Watch

The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan continues to deepen as both government and opposition forces obstruct aid and exacerbate civilian suffering. The international community faces pressing challenges in addressing these issues, particularly in supporting peacekeeping efforts and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need.