UN mission in South Sudan condemns armed group violence that killed more than 60 civilians – JURIST

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Tuesday strongly condemned recent armed group attacks in the country’s Warrap state that left more than 60 civilians dead and at least 50 others injured. The peacekeeping mission described the attacks as deliberate targeting of non-combatants that may amount to war crimes under international law.

According to reports, the Sunday attacks targeted villages in Warrap state, resulting in widespread casualties, abductions, sexual violence, and displacement. Survivors described scenes of devastation, with homes burned and families forced to flee.

The humanitarian toll is severe, as many of the injured lack access to adequate medical care, and displaced families face food insecurity and shelter challenges. UNMISS emphasized that such assaults on civilians are unacceptable and violate both national and international law.

In its statement, UNMISS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and supporting peacebuilding initiatives. The mission called on local authorities to investigate the attacks thoroughly and bring perpetrators to justice. It also urged community leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent retaliatory violence, which has historically fuelled cycles of conflict in Warrap and other states. William Jial, an UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer said:

People in this community have different political views which can cause tension. Our goal is to ensure that, regardless of their differences, they can live peacefully together.

South Sudan has struggled with recurring intra-communal violence, often driven by competition over resources, cattle raiding, and political grievances. Warrap state, in particular has been a hotspot for clashes between armed groups. The latest incident highlights the challenges facing the transitional government as it seeks to stabilise the country ahead of planned elections.

The violence, which erupted in several communities, underscores the fragile security situation in South Sudan and the urgent need for renewed peace efforts. The ongoing armed violence ravaging South Sudan violates multiple provisions of international law, most notably Common Article 3 of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, which prohibits murder, torture, and the cruel treatment of civilians in non-international armed conflicts.