Juba, South Sudan (PANA) - UN humanitarians in South Sudan have expressed deep concern over an order from government forces directing civilians and aid agencies to vacate the town of Akobo – near the Ethiopian border – ahead of planned military operations.
UN News reported that since fighting escalated in December 2025 after opposition forces seized government positions in Jonglei State, many civilians have sought refuge in Akobo county.
The county now hosts an estimated 270,000 displaced people – more than half women and children – making it “a critical refuge for people fleeing violence”.
“Any military action in or around such a densely populated area would expose civilians to grave danger and risk triggering a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Akobo County,” the UN Humanitarian Country Team warned.
Aid agencies reiterated that civilians must never be targeted or forcibly displaced and that all parties must adhere fully to international humanitarian law.
Humanitarian partners have recently scaled up life-saving assistance for displaced people and host communities, but disruptions to aid delivery could place thousands at immediate risk.
“We urge all parties to refrain from military operations in populated areas and resolve their differences through dialogue. The people of South Sudan need peace,” the team said.
-0- PANA MA 10March2026
