Dozens of civilians killed in airstrikes amid South Sudan conflict
- Civilian casualties are increasing in South Sudan due to airstrikes in violent clashes between the army and militia groups.
- Notable incidents include a bombing on a hospital that killed seven and injured many civilians.
- The ongoing violence poses a significant risk of a return to civil war in South Sudan.
In recent months, South Sudan has faced escalating violence as the country’s army confronts local militia groups across various regions. Specifically, clashes intensified in the Greater Upper Nile region, with notable developments starting in March when the White Army militia overpowered a military barracks in Nasir. This offensive, which reportedly involved improvised incendiary weapons, led to significant civilian casualties. In May, the conflict spread to previously unaffected areas like northern Jonglei State, with claims of hijacked barges sparking further tensions. Aid groups and local authorities report that the situation has resulted in numerous civilian casualties due to ongoing airstrikes. For instance, a bombing raid on May 3 saw multiple strikes hit hospitals, with at least seven individuals killed in the Doctors Without Borders facility in Fangak. Eyewitness accounts reveal that many victims include women and children, with incidents such as the death of 15-year-old Kuaynin Bol, who suffered severe injuries while asleep in his home during an airstrike. The International Committee of the Red Cross has highlighted the challenges faced by medical services in reaching those injured. Dr. Bjarte Andersen noted that many critically wounded individuals die while awaiting transport to medical facilities. Furthermore, it has been emphasized that the extent of casualties remains unclear due to the isolated nature of many fighting areas, with local leaders estimating that at least 25 civilians were confirmed dead in May alone. However, the actual number is believed to be higher owing to the inaccessibility of these regions by medical personnel. As the violence continues, a growing sense of fear is prevalent among the local population. Residents are reportedly fleeing or hiding during nighttime hours to avoid potential bombings, indicating a dire humanitarian situation. Aid groups have raised alarms about the fragility of peace in South Sudan, as ongoing conflicts threaten to push the nation back into civil war, exacerbating the already existing issues of food insecurity and extreme weather in the region.