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South Sudan Launches 'Operation Enduring Peace' in Jonglei After Rebel Gains

UN, AU issue urgent warnings over atrocity risk.

FILE - South Sudan's suspended First Vice President Riek Machar, seated at far right, is seen in the dock with seven others charged with murder, treason and crimes against humanity at the Freedom Hall in Juba, South Sudan, Sep. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Florence Miettaux, File)
FILE - South Sudan's President Salva Kiir attends the swearing-in ceremony for Kenya's new president William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya on Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga, File)

Overview

  • The army announced Operation Enduring Peace and ordered civilians and aid groups to leave three Jonglei counties within 48 hours.
  • A video showed Gen. Johnson Olony telling troops to "spare no lives" and not to spare the elderly, houses or property, drawing UN condemnation.
  • UNMISS estimated roughly 180,000 people have been displaced in Jonglei by recent fighting and threats of indiscriminate violence.
  • The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warned that incitement and force mobilization elevate the risk of mass violence and could trigger individual criminal responsibility.
  • The African Union urged de-escalation and called for adherence to the 2018 peace deal to prevent a broader relapse into conflict.