South Sudan | Urgecommunications

Urge- DevWire

News. Analysis. Events

South Sudan.

Surge of violence in Jonglei State forces people to flee, disrupts humanitarian operations

UN News / 8. January 2026/

OCHA reports that a surge in conflict and airstrikes in Jonglei State has forced people to flee their homes and has disrupted humanitarian operations.

Since 29 December, renewed fighting has displaced some 100,000 people – mostly women, children and older people – in several counties, according to authorities and humanitarian partners. Most displaced people are sheltering in remote areas out of fear of further attacks, while others have fled to neighboring states. On 6 January 6, authorities in Lakes State say they have registered more than 11,000 people as have arrived from Jonglei.

In northern Jonglei State, several humanitarian organizations have relocated staff due to the insecurity and instructions by parties to evacuate the area. Humanitarian organization continuing to operate with local staff report growing challenges, including in restocking health facilities, and sustaining other essential activities. The situation is further compounded by reports from several humanitarian organizations that their facilities and assets have been looted or confiscated by both parties, disrupting provision of essential health services for thousands of people at a time when South Sudan continues to grapple with food insecurity, disease outbreaks and the impact of last year’s flooding.

Despite these challenges, OCHA continues to engage with all parties so aid can reach people safely.

In 2025, more than 715,000 people were displaced by conflict and floods in South Sudan.